No abstract

The present study provides insight into several boundary conditions of expressive writing. Writing did not decrease PTSD-related symptom severity. Although patients continue to exhibit the core features of PTSD, their capacity to regulate those responses appears improved following expressive writing. Dysphoric mood decreased after writing and when exposed to traumatic memories, participants' physiological response is reduced and their recovery enhanced.

Research using college samples for the study of stressful life events is a useful and reasonable strategy. The authors discuss implications for research, as well as screening and referral services at universities.

Several behavioral medicine interventions (e.g., relaxation training and written emotional expression) have been proposed as effective supplemental treatments for individuals with chronic illnesses such as asthma. Whether these treatments are feasible or effective in a manual-based, self-administered format is unclear, and few studies have examined the effectiveness of such treatments presented in a complementary format. We examined the feasibility and effectiveness of a 4-week stress management treatment compared with a matched placebo intervention in young adults with asthma. Both groups considered the workbooks credible treatment interventions and completed them conscientiously. The treatment group showed significant improvement in measures of lung function compared with the placebo group, but analysis revealed no differences in measures of perceived stress. These findings provide initial support for the feasibility of self-administered manual-based interventions and some evidence that they can produce health benefits in individuals with asthma and, perhaps, other chronic conditions.

PrologueWe appreciate the opportunity to discuss the current state of hope theory with so many of our renowned colleagues. It is a luxury to have nine experts comment on hope theory. It allows those of us in the Hope Research Group to examine carefully the theory that we have developed and tested over the last decade. To facilitate our responding to the commentators, we have grouped their various points together, and take up each of these issues separately.