Comparing thought suppression and mindfulness as coping techniques for spider fear

► Spider fearful participants were exposed to a mindfulness or suppression induction. ► Participants then completed a Behavioural Approach Test (BAT) and an anxiety measure. ► Participants exposed to the mindfulness induction completed more steps on the BAT. ► Participants in the thought suppression group reported higher levels of anxiety. ► Mindfulness is a useful alternative to thought suppression in managing spider fear.