Experiential Avoidance and Automatic Negative Thoughts between CBSE and ICSE Students: Comparative Analysis

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the levels of experiential avoidance and automatic negative thoughts among students enrolled in two distinct educational systems in India: the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE). Experiential avoidance refers to the tendency to avoid or suppress uncomfortable emotions or thoughts, while automatic negative thoughts represent the spontaneous occurrence of negative cognitive patterns. The sample consists of [number] students from both CBSE and ICSE schools, selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using standardized measures for experiential avoidance and automatic negative thoughts. Results indicate no significant differences in both experiential avoidance and automatic negative thoughts between CBSE and ICSE students. The implications of these findings are discussed in terms of educational practices and mental health interventions tailored to the unique needs of students in different educational systems. Understanding these psychological processes can contribute to the development of targeted interventions to promote students’ emotional well-being and academic success.