Expecting to heal through self-expression: a perceived control theory of writing and health

Abstract

Writing improves physical and psychological health when done expressively, or in a way characterized by cognitive-emotional engagement (Pennebaker, 1997). While numerous theories attempt to explain the relationship between expressive writing and health, no singular mechanism emerges as conclusive or dominant. This theoretical dilemma is likely due to the paradigm's vast and thus self-fulfilling directions, which place a premium on the participant's biases and positive expectations (Langens & Schüler, 2007). Accordingly, the current review builds a theory of perceived control, which makes three propositions: (1) Perceived control promotes health; (2) Traumatic and stressful events lead to loss of perceived control and therefore decrements in health; and (3) Expressive writing restores perceptions of control, thereby improving health. Indeed, perceived control is associated with the very process of expressive writing and has extensive ties to both physical and psychological well-being. Unlike other proposed models, a theory of perceived control identifies which individuals should benefit from writing and explains why health benefits are often short-term. Expressive writing, due to its appeal as a healing ritual, is likely to build up confidence in one's health and prospects, without taking into account the uncertainties of day-to-day events and circumstances.

Keywords:

• self-disclosure
• expressive writing
• trauma
• stress
• self-regulation
• perceived control

Acknowledgements

We thank Joshua M. Smyth and Ellen J. Langer, both of whom commented on earlier drafts of this paper. Thanks also to Andreana Kenrick and Christine Kesselring for their input. The research was funded by a grant from the Richter Memorial Scholarship Program.