What is the main feature of the "circling" style of catastrophizing?

The "circling" style of catastrophizing is characterized by ruminating on a specific bad outcome without escalating negativity. This approach often involves fixating on one particular negative event or thought, leading to a repetitive cycle of worry about that scenario. Instead of branching out into a variety of negative possibilities or allowing thoughts to spiral into broader doubts, the individual remains focused on a single outcome, which can create a sense of being stuck or trapped in that thought pattern.

The other options, while related to different cognitive processes, do not accurately capture the essence of circling. One option discusses imagining worst-case scenarios in various contexts, which relates more to a broader form of catastrophizing rather than the focused rumination of circling. Another option mentions smoothly transitioning to positive thoughts, which contrasts with the concept of circling as it does not involve a productive shift in thinking. The suggestion of thinking about multiple events simultaneously also steps away from the core function of circling, which is about narrowing attention rather than broadening it.