The role of emotion dysregulation and intolerance of uncertainty in autism: Transdiagnostic factors influencing co-occurring conditions

Abstract

BackgroundIndividuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are more likely to have co-occurring psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety. Transdiagnostic constructs such as intolerance of uncertainty (IU) and emotion dysregulation (ED) have both been shown to be individually associated with depression and anxiety in those with ASD. AimsThe current study examined the relationship between IU and ED, depression, and anxiety in an ED treatment-seeking sample and examined whether ED acts as a mediator between IU-depression and IU-anxiety. Methods and ProceduresWe examined baseline scores for 78 adolescents and young adults (12–21 years old) who were participating in an ED treatment. We assessed for correlations between IU, Reactivity and Dysphoria, anxiety, and depression symptoms, and then conducted mediation analyses to determine whether Reactivity and Dysphoria functioned as a mediator in IU- anxiety and IU- depression relationships. Outcomes and ResultsConcordant with prior research, ED, IU, anxiety, and depression scores were correlated. Both Reactivity and Dysphoria were found to mediate both IU-depression and IU-anxiety. Conclusions and ImplicationsFindings suggest that ED contributes to how IU affects psychopathology. Furthermore, both IU and ED may be pertinent treatment targets for individuals with depression or anxiety and ASD.