The anxiety sensitivity construct: Cognitive reactions to physiological change

Abstract

Anxiety sensitivity is proposed as an individual difference variable distinguishable from anxiety. Theoretically, individuals with high levels of anxiety sensitivity believe the experiences of anxiety are harmful and monitor their physiological responses by focusing attention to their internal stimuli. The current study assessed four groups of subjects: those with high and low levels of anxiety sensitivity; and those with or without recent experiences of panic attacks. Subjects completed a physiological protocol and reported their cognitions and subjective distress. Results support physiological change; however, reactions to the change did not differ significantly by ASI groupings, but were impacted by prior experiences with panic. Results are discussed in terms of support for a conditioning paradigm, with no apparent contribution from the postulated trait of anxiety sensitivity.