Intrusive thoughts in non‐clinical subjects: the role of frequency and unpleasantness on appraisal ratings and control strategies

This study explores the frequency of the appearance of intrusive thoughts in normal people, as well their association with cognitive appraisals and control strategies. A total of 336 subjects completed the Spanish adaptation of the Obsessional Intrusions Inventory‐Revised (ROII), designed by Purdon and Clark (1993, 1994a, 1994b). Most of the subjects (99.4%) reported experiencing intrusive thoughts occasionally, but only 13% reported having them with some frequency. The intrusions were included in two factors: aggression, sexually and socially inappropriate behaviours, and doubts, checking, and cleanliness. The frequency of appearance of the most upsetting intrusive thought was associated with: the likelihood/probability bias, the need to control the thoughts, and neutralizing strategies. Nevertheless, the unpleasantness was associated with the morality bias and a broad range of control strategies. These results are discussed in relation to the different roles that the appraisal and the thought control responses play, both regarding the persistence as well as the unpleasantness associated with the most upsetting intrusions.