Predicting Individual Differences in Thought Suppression

Predicting Individual Differences in Thought Suppression

Thought suppression is the cognitive act of earnestly attempting to block out involuntary thoughts. Previous research has indicated that thought suppression is counterproductive and has negative mental and physical associations. The present research sought to examine the variables that may predict individual differences in trait levels of thought suppression. Specifically, we investigated whether trait level thought suppression could be predicted by mind wandering, religious faith (versus atheism/agnosticism), self-esteem, sex (male/female), socioeconomic status, and affect (positive/negative emotions). Participants included 203 NSU undergraduates (139 female), from 18 to 52 years of age (M = 19.9, SD = 4.42), who completed an online survey assessing the relevant individual difference variables. Multiple regression analysis indicates that trait level thought suppression can indeed be predicted from this collection of individual difference variables (Adj. R2 = .26, p < .001). Additionally, three variables emerged as unique predictors of thought suppression: mind wandering (ß = .27), religious faith (ß = .23), and self-esteem (ß = -.33). These results suggest that, at the trait level, thought suppression is more likely to occur in individuals who score high on a trait-level mind wandering and who report being a person of faith (as opposed be being atheist or agnostic). Conversely, thought suppression is less likely to occur in individuals with high self-esteem. Discussion addresses these results in the context of (1) existing literature on thought suppression and (2) potential implications for mental health and wellbeing.