Interrupting ironic processes
Article Abstract:
A number of clinical problems persist because of the ironic mental processes, in which problems are exacerbated when attempts are made to control them. Ironic interpersonal (social) processes could be interrupted, however, and the development of treatment should focus less on how problems originate and more on how they are maintained. Less of the solution should be promoted as an intervention in the ironic problem-solution cycle. Ironic processes should not be controlled or predicted but should be interrupted and assessed. As mental processes are difficult to observe, it may prove difficult for therapists to reduce cognitive load.
Publication Name: Psychological Science
Subject: Psychology and mental health
ISSN: 0956-7976
Year: 1997
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When the antidote is the poison: ironic mental control processes
Article Abstract:
Attempts at mental control can sometimes ironically create the opposite effect to that intended. Mental control can potentially be achieved, but must be carefully approached. Ironic error will normally occur if the individual has a mental load, such as stress or depression. An individual may exacerbate a psychological problem by thinking about it as part of a self-improvement program, such as those with panic disorders who suffer attacks when consciously attempting to relax. Possible treatments include improving the operating process involved in mental control, or paradoxical therapies aimed at preventing mental control.
Publication Name: Psychological Science
Subject: Psychology and mental health
ISSN: 0956-7976
Year: 1997
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The putt and pendulum: Ironic effects of the mental control of action
Article Abstract:
Two experiments were performed to study the theory of ironic processes of mental control. Action control systems consist of two processes called intentional operating process and ironic monitoring process. The first experiment examined the mental control process through the putting of a golf ball and the ways the putt would go wrong. In the second experiment, a handheld pendulum was used to study ironic effects enhanced under conditions of load. Results revealed that ironic effect was more likely to happen when the person was permitted visual access to the observation of the error.
Publication Name: Psychological Science
Subject: Psychology and mental health
ISSN: 0956-7976
Year: 1998
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