Andrea has kept a secret about a traumatic childhood experience to herself for many years. After years of trying to not think about the experience, she decides to write about it in a diary. She spends an hour each night for several days writing about the experience and her feelings surrounding it. Based on research findings, what are the likely effects of Andrea's writing?
A) Andrea's health should improve.
B) Andrea will continue to be bothered by the experience until she shows the diary to someone.
C) Andrea will become obsessed with the experience, thinking about it more than ever.
D) Andrea will become depressed and require professional help.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Research has shown that expressive writing, like what Andrea is doing by writing about her traumatic experience in her diary, can have positive effects on physical and mental health. It can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve immune function. While it is possible that Andrea may still have some residual effects from the experience or might benefit from therapy, in general, expressive writing is a healthy coping mechanism.

Andrea Has Kept a Secret About a Traumatic Childhood Experience