ABSTRACT
The metacognitive model proposes that the CAS is linked to the priming of dysfunctional processing plans, in response to unwanted thoughts, feelings or events. For example, in depression, the metacognitive plan and associated metacognitive beliefs might be: ``I need to ruminate in order to ®nd a way out of depression'', ``My sadness is uncontrollable'' and ``Negative thoughts are important and must be attended to''. Therefore each time a negative thought or mood deviation intrudes into consciousness, the person effectively ``downloads'' a plan from long-term memory, resulting in prolonged and sustained rumination. A goal of the MCT therapist is to modify this plan. Each aspect of MCT is designed to enable the patient to develop and select an appropriate alternative plan that limits the CAS, thereby ameliorating psychopathology.
