Overview & Description:

The White Bear Problem, or Ironic Process Theory, developed by Daniel Wegner, posits that deliberate attempts to suppress certain thoughts make them more likely to surface. The term originates from Dostoevsky’s notion that trying not to think of a white bear makes it more persistent in one’s thoughts.

Example:

When trying not to think about eating a piece of chocolate, you might find yourself thinking about it even more.

Implications:

• Clinical Psychology: Developing therapeutic strategies that navigate around the challenges of thought suppression.
• Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Utilizing mindfulness as an alternative to suppression, encouraging non-judgmental acknowledgment of unwanted thoughts.

References:

• Wegner, D. M. (1989). White bears and other unwanted thoughts: Suppression, obsession, and the psychology of mental control. Viking/Penguin Group.