Imagery Rescripting (ImRs) is an increasingly used intervention for trauma-related symptoms that aims to modify the emotional meaning of distressing memories. Because trauma-related beliefs are thought to shape emotional responses, changes in these beliefs may contribute to symptom reduction through emotional change. 

The present study examined whether changes in trauma-related emotions (shame, anger, and sadness) and emotional impact mediate the relationship between changes in encapsulated belief believability and reductions in intrusion-related symptoms following ImRs. Although the proposed mediation mechanisms were not supported, the findings suggest that reductions in intrusion-related symptoms may not be sufficiently explained by changes in a single encapsulated belief and associated emotional responses. 

Overall, the study highlights the complexity of the mechanisms underlying ImRs, and contributes to current knowledge about the mechanisms through which symptom improvement could occur following the intervention.