Positive affect predicts avoidance goals in social interaction anxiety: testing a hierarchical model of social goals
Trew, J.L.; Alden, L.E.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy 41(2): 174-183
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 1650-6073 PMID: 22489603 DOI: 10.1080/16506073.2012.663402Document Number: 248477
Models of self-regulation suggest that social goals may contribute to interpersonal and affective difficulties, yet little research has addressed this issue in the context of social anxiety. The present studies evaluated a hierarchical model of approach and avoidance in the context of social interaction anxiety, with affect as a mediating factor in the relationship between motivational tendencies and social goals. This model was refined in one undergraduate sample (N = 186) and cross-validated in a second sample (N = 195). The findings support hierarchical relationships between motivational tendencies, social interaction anxiety, affect, and social goals, with higher positive affect predicting fewer avoidance goals in both samples. Implications for the treatment of social interaction anxiety are discussed.