Situational specificity of self-focused attention in dysphoric states

Although research has shown that heightened self-focused attention characterizes dysphoria, few studies have examined what factors are linked to increases in this process. The current study examined whether mood states affect the elevation of self-focused attention among dysphoric individuals. A sample of individuals with elevated dysphoria was compared with a control sample after either a negative or a positive mood induction. Dysphoric individuals showed higher self-focus than control participants after both mood conditions. These data suggest a generalized self-focusing responsivity among dysphoric individuals that may contribute to the intensity and duration of the dysphoria.