[4][5] This measure was created in response to Aaron T. Beck’s hypothesis that thinking in depressed populations tends to be negative.
[4][6][7] It has been suggested in some studies that depression is associated with having increased levels of automatic negative thoughts.
In their study, the researchers selected a group of individuals who were diagnosed with social anxiety disorder, and then administered them automatic thought questionnaires.
The study found that people with higher levels of automatic negative thoughts were more likely to show more fear and avoidance.
[9] Ritvo and colleagues found that university students going through a series of mindfulness courses had an overall group reduction in automatic negative thoughts.