Bergljot Gjelsvik

2 papers in the library · 29 citations · publishing 2016-2020

Papers

Embodied cognition and emotional disorders

Journal of Experimental Psychopathology December 1, 2016 Bergljot Gjelsvik, Darko Lovrić, Mark G. Williams 29 citations

Embodied cognition research shows that thinking involves re-enacting motor and sensory experiences, a process called simulation. Evidence supports a 'distributed plus hub' model where simulation underpins knowledge. The authors argue that emotional disorders like depression arise from failed simulation: semantic processing reactivates motor-sensory simulations linked to low mood, and people may truncate this simulation by relying on abstract, language-based thinking to reduce emotional distress, which maintains psychopathology. The review examines how truncated simulation contributes to emotional disorders and discusses implications for treatment.

DOI: 10.5127/pr.035714 Full text Psychology

A randomized clinical trial of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for women with irritable bowel syndrome-Effects and mechanisms.

Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology February 7, 2020 J. Henrich, Bergljot Gjelsvik, C. Surawy et al.

A 6-week mindfulness-based cognitive therapy adapted for irritable bowel syndrome (MBCT-IBS) reduced IBS symptoms and improved quality of life in female patients compared with a waitlist control. The therapy appeared to work by reducing maladaptive illness cognitions such as visceral anxiety sensitivity and pain catastrophizing, and by shifting self-referential processing toward less bias toward illness and greater nonjudgmental awareness.

DOI: 10.1037/ccp0000483 Medicine Psychology