The influence of dysphoria on positive and negative cognitive reactivity to daily mood fluctuations

This study used an experience sampling design to investigate the influence of dysphoria on positive and negative cognitive reactivity. Participants reported on their thoughts, mood, and stress four times per day for one week as they experienced their typical daily routines. We hypothesized that those higher in dysphoria would demonstrate a greater increase in negative thinking in response to negative mood and events, and lower positive cognitions in response to positive mood and events. These hypotheses were largely supported. Regression analyses indicated that positive and negative cognitive reactivity were independently related to dysphoria, signifying that they might represent distinct processes. Our results are consistent with previous research, and they highlight the importance of understanding levels of both negative and positive cognitive reactivity. Finally, this study underscores the benefits of assessing mood and cognition with repeated daily measurements, in order to better understand the antecedent effects of mood on thinking.