THE PARADOX OF ENGAGEMENT: INFLUENCE OF NEGATIVE AFFECTIVITY AND DETACHMENT ON VIEWER RESPONSE TO FILM PORTRAYING PSYCHOPATHOLOGY

Abstract

The use of cinema as a tool for individual and social transformation is omnipresent. Yet, a film mechanism narrating the psychological impact of films is overlooked. The study aimed to investigate the role of film engagement as a potential mediator in the relationship between personality pathology (specifically, negative affectivity and detachment) and film-induced emotional distress, using a film portraying psychopathology. Film engagement, indicated by empathy towards the protagonist and memory retention of the film material, was measured as a predictor of subsequent film rumination. Theoretical links between factors can be synthesized into a single model - negative affectivity would predict increase in emotional distress, while detachment would not. Using a clip from the film Joker (2019), the study examined the constructs using self-report questionnaires among a non-clinical sample of undergraduates (N = 247). Results indicated that negative affectivity positively predicted emotional distress over a three-day period, mediated by empathy and rumination. Contrary to expectation, detachment predicted film-induced emotional distress. Findings partially support a film mechanism, shedding light on the temporal precedence of certain transdiagnostic risk factors. Possible reasons for the observed discrepancy, limitations and future directions are discussed.