Background: Transdiagnostic models which focus on shared mechanisms, such as repetitive negative thinking (RNT), may add different perspective to existing notions of social anxiety disorder (SAD). One such models is Contrast Avoidance Model (CAM) which suggests that persons who are sensitive to negative emotional shifts create and maintain negative emotion (i.e., Negative Emotional Contrast; NEC) through RNTs to prevent further emotional fluctuations. Sensitivity to and avoidance of NEC could also be a shared feature of individuals with SAD who are known for their use of safety behaviors. The current study examined the predictive role of contrast avoidance in social anxiety and its principal maintaining factors; RNTs, safety behaviors and neuroticism. Methods: 250 people completed measures of contrast avoidance, social anxiety symptoms, post event processing, pre-event processing, safety behaviors and neuroticism. Results: Results showed significant predictive role of contrast avoidance across different social phases; before, during and after the social situation. Although being averse to negative emotional changes (Tenet 1 in CAM) was the strongest predictor for anticipatory processing, social anxiety symptoms, safety behaviors and neuroticism, it was post-event processing that was predicted strongly with avoidance of NECs (Tenet 2 and 3). However, avoidance of NECs predicted pre-event processing, safety behaviors and neuroticism in the next step of the regression model. Limitations: The study had a cross-sectional design and relied on a non-clinical sample. Conclusion: Identifying shared mechanisms across SAD and its comorbidities is an important and novel conceptualization to understand the etiology and maintenance of symptoms.

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