The role of emotional regulation difficulties in unusual sensory experiences

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Emotional regulation difficulties have been linked to unusual sensory experiences (USEs) in the general population. However, the multi-factorial nature of emotional regulation is relatively understudied. This study examined emotional regulation difficulties, alexithymia and interpersonal emotional regulation across six USEs in a psychosis-proneness sample. Methods This study used a cross-sectional correlational research design with predictive models. Data was gathered using an online survey methodology, with convenience purposive sampling. Results A series of hierarchical linear regressions tested the predictive power of the emotional regulation variables on USEs, controlling for self-identified psychiatric diagnoses. Emotional regulation difficulties were a significant predictor in all six USEs. Alexithymia was a significant predictor in three USEs. Interpersonal emotion regulation was not a significant predictor. Discussion The consistency of the relationship between emotional regulation difficulties and USEs emphasised its importance in psychological models and the potential to utilise the large emotional dysregulation evidence base with psychosis populations. Emotional regulation is a multi-factorial construct. Further exploration of emotional regulation difficulties in USEs, and utilising emotional regulation skills with clinical samples are warranted.