Repetitive Thought and Negative Affect in Autistic Adults

Abstract

Repetitive thinking (RT) is a transdiagnostic construct, with both helpful and unhelpful outcomes. Thought valence (positive/negative) and construal level (abstract/concrete) are postulated to affect how helpful RT is; with negative valence and abstract level of construal associated with detrimental mood outcomes. Despite research finding autistic individuals have increased negative RT, and frequent co-occurring mental health difficulties, it is yet to be investigated if the same association holds true for the autistic population. This study investigated the association between quantity and qualities of RT (level of construal and thought valence) and negative affect in the autistic population. 29 autistic and 29 comparison adults completed a 7-day Ecological Momentary Assessment study. Questions regarding thought content and processing and mood delivered via smart phone 8 times per day. The autistic group engaged in more intense RT than the comparison group. When repetitively thinking, their thoughts were more negatively valenced and they employed more abstract construals compared to the comparison group. The pattern of association between construal, valence and mood previously reported holds true for the autistic population, and importantly appear to be even stronger. Therapies aimed at reducing abstract construals, such as Rumination-Focussed CBT, could be beneficial for autistic individuals.