Changing the past in your imagination: Working with memories can reduce fear of failure
Summary
A randomized, controlled trial (n=180, ages 18–35) shows that imagery-based therapies (Imagery Exposure, Imagery Rescripting, and a delayed ImRs variant) significantly reduce fear of failure and related negative emotions, with effects persisting at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. The ImRs approach was especially effective when a prediction error occurred, suggesting memory narrative modification can yield durable change.