| Abstract: | Abstract— The theory of ironic processes of mental control holds that both the most and the least desired effects of attempts to control one's own mental states accrue from two processes an intentional operating process (a conscious, effortful search for mental contents that mil produce a desired slate of mind) and an ironic monitoring process (an unconscious, automatic search for mental contents that signal a failure lo produce the desired Mate of mind) Although the monitoring process usually functions just to activate the operating process, during stress distraction, time urgency, or other mental load, the monitor's effects on mind can supersede those of the operator, producing the very state of mind that is least desired An individual's attempts lo gain mental control may thus precipitate the unwanted mental states. |
