When is Fantasy Proneness Associated with Distress? An Examination of Two Models

Abstract

Fantasy prone individuals frequently turn their attention inward, focusing on a rich internal world of imaginary people or stories, vivid memories or dreams, and emotions or sensations cued by internal stimuli. While engaging in fantasy or daydreaming can often be an enjoyable pastime, some research has linked fantasy proneness to heightened psychological distress. The present study of 83 undergraduates utilized 2 models to examine the relationship between fantasy proneness and symptoms of depression, 1 mediated by an avoidant coping style and the other moderated by an external locus of control orientation. Analyses revealed that locus of control did moderate this relationship, with fantasy proneness being more strongly linked to symptoms of depression in those subjects with an external locus of control orientation. Fantasy proneness was not significantly correlated with an avoidant coping style.