Past Issues

Objectives:Recollections of positive autobiographic memory help nondys- phoric but not dysphoric individuals to repair sad mood. The content of memory recall could be an effective factor.The objective of this study was through manipu- lating the content of memory recall to examine the ability of regulating negative mood in dysphoric and nondysphoric individuals. Methods:We examined the questions from a nonclinical sample of 156 college students. After negative mood induction, dysphoric and nondysphoric groups were randomly assigned to positive autobiographic memory or positive others’ memory conditions to write these memories without time limitation. Results:Both nondysphoric and dysphoric par- ticipants were benefited from recall of positive autobiographic memories or others’ memories recall. But, positive autobiographic memory recall was more effective to diminish negative mood and to increase happy mood than others’ memory re- call. Conclusion:Dysphoric participants may not only repair previously induced negative mood, but also simultaneously overcome the feeling of worsened present self. Thus, it may take longer time for them to repair sad mood. Accordingly, time length could be important in mood regulation.