Taking Pen to Hand: Evaluating Theories Underlying the Written Disclosure Paradigm.

In recent years the written disclosure paradigm has beenrelated to improvements in physical healthin a numberofpopulations. However, it still remains unclear why thisparadigm is effective. In this paper the literature on thewritten disclosure paradigm is reviewed, and possibleexplanations for its beneficial effects are explored. It isconcluded that, although the paradigm may producebeneficial effects for some individuals, more attentionneeds to be directed toward understanding why it worksand for whom this approach might be best suited.Methodological considerations for future research arealso offered.Key words: written disclosure; underlying mecha-nisms, psychological health, physical health. [Clin PsycholSci Prac 11: 121–137, 2004]