Metacognitive beliefs and addictions: A systematic review and meta-analysis with emphasis on the mediating role of desire thinking

The Self-Regulatory Executive Function model and the Elaborated Intrusion Theory of desire highlight how dysfunctional metacognitions and desire thinking sustain addictive behaviors. Although some evidence suggests that desire thinking may act as a bridge linking metacognitive beliefs to addictive behaviors, no meta -analysis has investigated the potential mediating role of desire thinking in this relationship. To address this, we conducted a systematic review and meta -analysis in line with PRISMA guidelines. Searches across seven databases through May 2025 identified 156,312 records; after screening and eligibility checks, 14 studies (N = 7,093, male = 51.90%, mean age = 32.08, SD = 12.43) met inclusion criteria. Metacognitions showed robust positive associations with addictive behaviors (r = 0.29–.74), strongest for negative metacognitions about desire thinking and problematic smartphone/social media use. Positive metacognitions also correlated significantly, though effect sizes were smaller. Metacognitions were strongly related to desire thinking (r up to 0.62), particularly between negative metacognitions and verbal perseveration. Desire thinking itself was moderately to strongly associated with addictive behaviors (r = 0.34–.67), with imaginal prefiguration strongly predicting smartphone overuse (r = 0.63). Mediation analyses confirmed that both verbal perseveration and imaginal prefiguration transmitted effects of metacognitions onto addictive behaviors, with imagery-based pathways especially relevant for smartphone use. Moderator analyses revealed age, sex, and population type as significant moderators in selected models, highlighting stronger effects for females and general population samples. Findings highlight desire thinking as a process closely associated with various forms of addictive behaviors, underscoring its clinical relevance. Focusing on this association can enhance metacognitive interventions and deepen our understanding of addictive behaviors across different domains.