Can concreteness training buffer against the negative effects of rumination on PTSD? An experimental analogue study

Background and objectives Trauma-related rumination has been found to be an important maintaining factor for PTSD. On the background of the processing mode account of ruminative thinking, this study tested whether the relationship between rumination and analogue PTSD symptoms can be modified by training participants in a concrete mode of processing. Methods Healthy participants were trained in either an abstract or a concrete style of processing. Afterwards, they watched a stressful film. The interactive effect of training condition and trait rumination on intrusive memories of the film was examined. Results Following abstract training, a positive relationship between trait rumination and intrusive memories of the film emerged. As hypothesized, this relationship disappeared following concrete training. Limitations include the lack of a no-training control group and the analogue paradigm used. Conclusions The study provides preliminary evidence that the relationship between trait rumination and analogue PTSD symptoms can be modified. If replicated in future studies, it may be promising to examine the value of concreteness training for prevention and/or treatment of PTSD.