Exploring patterns of Emotional Regulation Flexibility among individuals exposed to Trauma

Emotional regulation (ER) flexibility has been a factor emerging within the extant literature, which may buffer the impact of mental ill health. ER flexibility encompasses three components (1) Context Sensitivity (2) Repertoire and (3) feedback responsiveness. Research has not acknowledged how these components vary among the population. Understanding this may identify specific subgroups who are at an increased risk for mental health difficulties. The current study adopted a cross sectional online survey design. All participants were screened to ensure they met inclusion criteria (experiencing at least 1 trauma). 563 participants (18+; UK based) completed the survey. Latent profile analysis was used to explore the potential heterogeneity of ER flexibility among the sample. Multivariate logistic regression was then used to explore differences between ER profiles and mental health outcomes. We identified three distinct profiles: (class 1) low-flexibility regulators, (class 2) intermediate-flexibility regulators and (class 3) high-flexibility regulators. These profiles are discussed as they relate to increased or decreased risk of experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression and PTSD. The current study demonstrates the novel application of a person-centered statistical approach to the study of ER flexibility, showing distinct profiles of ER ability can be identified and that certain profiles represent greater risk. Limitations include the use of self-report measures and a cross sectional design.