Cognitive Processes in Panic Disorder: An Extension of Current Models

Abstract

Beck and Clark's 1997 information processing model of panic was presented and evaluated. In general, studies using the Stroop task have shown panic patients have a cognitive bias toward negative and personally relevant information. Several studies have also shown that panic patients tend to have more catastrophic thoughts and are more likely to misinterpret bodily sensations. Further, cognitive-behavioral therapy is more effective than drug therapies. The limitations of the cognitive model and cognitive-behavioral therapy were discussed, and an extension of current models was proposed. The extension of current models combines cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic concepts and techniques and suggests that exposure in vivo used for agoraphobic situations and interoceptive exposure used for panic should also be applied to the underlying themes of panic disorder.