Ruminative style predicts motivational changes after a negative mood induction

Abstract

Recent research has shown that ruminative responses may be boosted by a pattern of low BAS (Behavioral Activation System) and high BIS (Behavioral Inhibition System) which may have motivational implications. In this research we explored whether this motivational BIS/BAS pattern, associated to rumination, can be affected by current mood. Ruminators and non-ruminators were assessed with a state version of BIS/BAS scales before and after a negative mood induction procedure. Our results showed that, after induction, participants with a ruminative style had a significant lower sensitivity to reward whereas levels of sensitivity to punishment remained unchanged. Implications for the understanding of the cognitive and motivational nature of rumination are discussed.