Disentangling facets of emotion regulation in relation to problematic substance use and impulse control: Need satisfaction and frustration as mediators
Summary
From the perspective of self-determination theory, the present study aimed to differentiate various facets of emotional regulation (ER) in relation to substance abuse. Suggested was a “positive” protective process of integrative emotion regulation styles (i.e. mindful observation, non-judgmental awareness and intentional exploration) predicting delayed gratification, with need satisfaction as a mediator. Furthermore, a “negative” undermining process was put forward with the maladaptive emotion regulation styles (i.e. dysregulation, suppressive emotion regulation) on substance use with need frustration as a mediator. Data was collected via an online questionnaire consisting of 82 items. A total of 141 participants were analyzed by means of a multiple linear regression and a mediation analysis using the PROCESS model of SPSS. Participants consisted of 82 men and 58 women. Results showed the “positive” process of integrative emotion regulation styles to have positive relations with basic need satisfaction and delayed gratification. Results of the “negative” process showed maladaptive emotion regulation styles to have positive relations with need frustration but not substance abuse. Need satisfaction, but not frustration, was found to mediate these processes. Results indicate for a need of an integrative therapeutic approach, where all facets of emotion regulation are addressed.