Beyond mean levels and linear relationships: The complex association between emotion recognition ability and well-being

Abstract

Emotion recognition ability (ERA) is typically conceptualized as an adaptive ability that contributes to better social functioning and well-being. However, there is a lack of studies examining the link between ERA and well-being. In the present two-week daily diary study (N = 437), this association was investigated in more detail. Although ERA was not significantly correlated with mean levels of well-being, higher ERA predicted lower affect variability and instability. There was also evidence for a U-shaped relationship between ERA and well-being. Further, maladaptive emotion regulation and neuroticism moderated the ERA-well-being link. These findings suggest that ERA should not be seen as universally adaptive for well-being.