Abstract
Objective
The present study examined the contribution of panic appraisal (PA) dimensions to the prediction of panic and agoraphobic symptoms, above and beyond anxiety sensitivity (AS), among patients with panic disorder. PA dimensions consist of anticipated panic, perceived panic consequences, and panic coping efficacy.
Method
Panic disorder patients (N = 84, 60.7% female, M = 38 years) completed self‐report measures of panic and agoraphobic symptoms, three dimensions of PA, AS, anxiety, and depression symptoms.
Results
PA dimensions significantly contributed to the prediction of overall and all facets of panic and agoraphobic symptoms, as well as anxiety symptoms, but not depressive symptoms, above and beyond AS. Of the three PA dimensions, both anticipated panic and panic coping efficacy uniquely contributed to agoraphobic avoidance after controlling for AS and the other dimensions of PA.
Conclusion
PA dimensions may emerge as an important predictor of panic and agoraphobic or anxiety symptoms.