Nightmare distress revisited: Cognitive appraisal of nightmares according to Lazarus' transactional model of stress. (September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gieselmann, Annika; Elberich, Nina; Mathes, Jonas; Pietrowsky, Reinhard
• Is Part Of: Journal of behavior therapy and experimental psychiatry. Volume 68(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-09
• Subjects: Sleep disorders -- Nightmares -- Anxiety -- Appraisal -- Transactional model of stress -- Factor analysis; Behavior therapy -- Periodicals; 616.89142
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2019.101517
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0005-7916

Abstract

Abstract: Aim of the current research was to newly conceptualize nightmare distress. The special focus was on the appraisal of nightmare distress while applying a theory-driven approach based on Lazarus' transactional model of stress. It was argued that individuals feel the more distressed the more they feel threatened and harmed by their nightmares (primary appraisal according to Lazarus) and the more they lack of adequate coping skills to deal with the stressor (secondary appraisal). Based on these assumptions, the questionnaire of Cognitive Appraisal of Nightmares (CAN) was challenged empirically in two studies of patients who have experienced distressing nightmares using explorative and confirmative factor analyses ( N = 504 and N = 402). Items and scales showed good psychometric properties and plausible correlations. The CAN sum score was more distinct from nightmare frequency than the frequently used Nightmare Distress Questionnaire (NDQ), underpinning that frequency and distress are both different approaches to what patients suffer from. The NDQ was particularly associated with acted out behaviors after a nightmare, while the CAN was particularly associated with physiological and emotional consequences of a nightmare. In order to obtain a multifactorial and theory-driven picture about how individuals appraise their nightmares, the CAN may be convenient. Highlights: Nightmare distress is conceptualized according to Lazarus' transactional model of stress. Distress is the higher the more nightmares are appraised as threatening and harmful. Distress is the higher the lesser the individual relies on available coping skills. The result is the Questionnaire of Cognitive Appraisal of Nightmares (CAN). Nightmare distress and nightmare frequency both measure different aspects of what patients suffer from.