A multivariate twin study of trait mindfulness, depressive symptoms, and anxiety sensitivity.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Mindfulness-based therapies have been shown to be effective in treating depression and reducing cognitive biases. Anxiety sensitivity is one cognitive bias that may play a role in the association between mindfulness and depressive symptoms. It refers to an enhanced sensitivity toward symptoms of anxiety, with a belief that these are harmful. Currently, little is known about the mechanisms underpinning the association between mindfulness, depression, and anxiety sensitivity. The aim of this study was to examine the role of genetic and environmental factors in trait mindfulness, and its genetic and environmental overlap with depressive symptoms and anxiety sensitivity.

Methods

Over 2,100 16-year-old twins from a population-based study rated their mindfulness, depres

SUBMITTER: Waszczuk MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4413043 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature