The pathway from a general problematic worry to paranoia-related worry. The mediating role of hostile attributions moderated by negative emotional states

Paulina Bagrowska, Jacek Małecki, Justyna Piwińska, Marlena Thiele, Maria Nalberczak-Skóra and Łukasz Gawęda

Psychosis, 2025, vol. 17, issue 1, 95-106

Abstract: BackgroundWorry has been considered a significant predictor of paranoia, also associated with anxiety, depression, and hostile attributions. These factors have been recognized as important correlates or predictors of paranoid thoughts. However, the mechanisms through which worry increases the risk of paranoia remain poorly understood.MethodsA total of 529 participants (51.2% female) from the general population participated in an online study. The aim was to investigate the potential mediating role of hostile attributions in the relationship between general problematic worry and worry focused on paranoid content. Furthermore, it was hypothesized that negative emotional states would moderate this effect. Additionally, recently developed scales, the Dunn Worry Questionnaire (DWQ) and the Paranoia Worry Questionnaire (PWQ), were translated and validated for use in the Polish population.ResultsThe results revealed that hostile attributions mediate the link between general worry and paranoia worry, and negative emotional states significantly moderate the effect.DiscussionThe perception of others’ intentions as hostile may serve as a linking factor between general problematic worry and paranoia-related worry. This can be explained as a worry-driven mechanism, where negative emotional states play a crucial role.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1080/17522439.2024.2401571

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