Great thread topic!

I had read about this as a teenager. I found it very easy to stop. I often recognize this in other people. I sometimes mention it to others, Hoping they will recognize their patterns, depending upon the relationship I have with them at the time.

In growing up with a lot of chaos and in an unpredictable environment, I think this type of thinking is often a part of our experience, as well as the behavior modeled for us.
I have siblings who are in their 50's/60's and they still drive themselves into states of high anxiety by continuing this type of thinking. When I talk with them about this, the behavior, for them, seems very compulsive.
I think I am lucky I do not generally have obsessive/compulsive traits. I think it is much more difficult for some people to curb this type of thinking.

Love to All!