Research article summary (published 30 Aug 2009):

Effects of exposure to the suffering of unknown persons on health-related cognitions, and the role of mood.

Full Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to examine whether exposure to the suffering of unknown persons, as an inevitable part of life, influences cognitions about health. Our assumption was that exposure to suffering affects cognitions in a negative way, as well as this influence being exerted directly and through negative mood. Eighty-nine participants were randomly assigned to two groups. The experimental group was exposed to a series of photos presenting situations of human suffering, whereas the control group was exposed to a series of photos showing relaxing situations. Participants in the experimental group reported higher health anxiety and health value, and lower internal health locus of control, in comparison to the control group. No differences were found in self-rated health. Exposure to suffering affected cognitions directly and through decrease in positive mood. It seems that an 'in vitro' exposure to human suffering activates a cognitive and emotional reaction, which affects evaluations about self and personal well-being.

Author information

Author/s: Karademas, Evangelos C (EC);

Affiliation: Department of Psychology, University of Crete, Gallos, Rethymnon, Greece. karademas(-atsign-)psy.soc.uoc.gr

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Randomized Controlled Trial

Journal: Health (London, England : 1997) (Health (London)), published in England. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Sep; vol 13 (issue 5) : pp 491-504

Dates: Created 2009/08/21; Completed 2009/10/21;

PMID: 19696132, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 10/21/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Adolescent Adult Affect Anxiety - psychology Attitude to Health Cognition Emotions

Female Humans Male Photography Relaxation - psychology Stress, Psychological - psychology Young Adult

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