Mediators of Change in Imagery Rescripting and Imaginal Exposure for Nightmares: Evidence From a Randomized Wait-List Controlled Trial.
Behavior therapy September 1, 2019 Anna E Kunze, Jaap Lancee, Nexhmedin Morina et al.
Imagery rescripting and imaginal exposure are both effective treatments for nightmare disorder, but they work through different underlying mechanisms. In a randomized wait-list controlled trial with 104 participants, enhanced mastery or self-efficacy regarding nightmare content mediated the therapeutic effects of imagery rescripting. In contrast, increased tolerability of negative emotions elicited by nightmares mediated the effects of imaginal exposure. Although both treatments produce similar therapeutic outcomes, they appear to engage distinct psychological processes.