Restrepo-Castro JC, Labrador FJ, Gantiva C, Camacho K, Castro-Camacho L. The effect of information seeking behaviors in fear control.
J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 2023;
78:101797. [PMID:
36435551 DOI:
10.1016/j.jbtep.2022.101797]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
Individuals experiencing conditioned fear reactions often resort to avoidance and escape behaviors as attempts to decrease fear. Nevertheless, these strategies are not always available. In such cases, people seek information to mitigate aversive events. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of information seeking behaviors on self-reported fear, predictability, and physiological responses.
METHODS
Participants were randomly assigned to two groups. In group one, individuals were given the choice to perform an instrumental behavior which provided information about the occurrence of either an aversive or a neutral event (100% contingency). In group two, individuals were also allowed to perform an instrumental behavior. However, such behavior provided partial information (50% contingency).
RESULTS
Individuals in group one presented lower levels of fear compared to individuals assigned to group two.
LIMITATIONS
The generalizability of the results may be restricted to undergraduate students.
CONCLUSIONS
The results suggests that when avoidance and escape are not available, individuals seek information that provides control over fear. Clinical implications are discussed.
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