Prediction of obsessive-compulsive symptoms based on cognitive bias and the mediation of metacognitive beliefs

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the predictive role of cognitive bias in obsessive-compulsive symptoms with the mediating effect of metacognitive beliefs among adolescents in Tehran.

Methodology: This descriptive-correlational study was conducted on 395 high school students in Tehran, selected via multistage cluster sampling based on Morgan’s table. Data were collected using the Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised (OCI-R), Cognitive Bias Questionnaire (CBQ), and Metacognitions Questionnaire (MCQ-30). Pearson correlation (SPSS-27) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) via AMOS-21 were used for data analysis.

Findings: Cognitive bias significantly predicted obsessive-compulsive symptoms (β = 0.31, p < 0.001) and metacognitive beliefs (β = 0.45, p < 0.001). Metacognitive beliefs also significantly predicted OCD symptoms (β = 0.48, p < 0.001). The indirect effect of cognitive bias on OCD symptoms through metacognitive beliefs was significant (β = 0.22). The model showed good fit (χ²/df = 2.16, RMSEA = 0.054, CFI = 0.96).

Conclusion: The findings support the joint role of cognitive bias and metacognitive beliefs in the severity of obsessive-compulsive symptoms, suggesting that effective clinical interventions should target metacognitive structures alongside cognitive distortions.