Emotion Reactivity,Emotion Dysregulation,and Suicide

Emotion reactivity refers to the extent to which an individual experiences emotions(a)in response to a wide array of stimuli(i.e.,emotion sensitivity),(b)strongly or intensely(i.e.,emotion intensity),and(c)for a prolonged period of time before returning to baseline level of arousal(i.e.,emotion persistence).Emotion dysregulation is a multidimensional conceptualization,including(a)lack of awareness of emotional responses,(b)lack of clarity of emotional responses,(c)nonacceptance of emotional responses,(d)limited access to emotion regulation strategies perceived as effective,(e)difficulties controlling impulses when experiencing negative emotions,and(f)difficulties engaging in goal-directed behaviors when experiencing negative emotions.A number of recent studies have found that emotion reactivity and emotion dysregulation can predict suicidality.Therefore,in this paper,we aimed to explore the relationship among emotion reactivity,emotion dysregulation,and suicide further and clarify the role of emotion reactivity and emotion dysregulation in suicide.In study 1,we examined the psychometric properties of the Emotion Reactivity Scale(ERS)in a sample of Chinese undergraduates.In study 2,we explored the relationship among emotion reactivity,emotion dysregulation,and suicide.A total of 1615 Chinese undergraduates were administrated the Emotion Reactivity Scale,the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale and SCL-90.Additional three items were used to evaluate the suicidal ideation and attempt.Conclusion:1.The Emotion Reactivity Scale Chinese Revised(ERS-CR)is a reliable and valid instrument,which can be used to measure the extent of emotion reactivity.2.There were significant difference in emotion reactivity and emotion dysregulation among control group,suicidal ideation group and suicidal attempt group.3.With depression and anxiety included in the model,ERS can predict suicidal ideation.4.With depression and anxiety included in the model,lack of awareness of emotional responses,lack of clarify of emotional responses,difficults engaging in goal-directed behaviors when experiencing negative emotions,and limited access to emotion regulation strategied perceived as effective can predict suicidal ideation.Lack of awareness of emotional responses,lack of clarify of emotional responses and difficulties controlling impulses when experiencing negative emotions can predict suicidal attempt.