How might we model the processes involved in regulating emotions via reappraisal? In two complementary studies, we tested the idea that reappraisal effects on emotion are mediated by shifts along appraisal dimensions. In an experimental Study 1, 437 students recalled a recent distressing event and rated their appraisals and emotions before and after using reappraisal to feel less negative about the event. Between 19% and 49% of changes to different emotions were statistically mediated by shifts along ten appraisal dimensions. Latent profile analyses suggested that the appraisal shifts reflected four distinct reappraisal tactics. These findings were conceptually replicated in a second intensive longitudinal study, where 168 participants rated their appraisals and emotions in relation to maximum of 3 emotional events for 7 days, first within an hour of the event and again in the evening when they also reported on emotion regulation use (1142 observations). Between 22% and 46% of changes to different emotions accompanying reappraisal use were mediated by shifts along appraisal dimensions. Appraisal shifts were significantly less relevant for otherwise regulated and spontaneous emotion changes. Relative to Study 1, the latent profile analyses of Study 2 revealed two similar and four novel reappraisal tactics reflecting a broader set of events. Across both studies, all appraisal dimensions were involved in at least one tactic and no dimension was involved in all of them, highlighting the importance of appraisal profiles. These findings suggest that appraisal shift profiles can be part of a useful model of cognitive processes underlying reappraisal.
Emotion Regulation in High and Low Socially Anxious Individuals: An Experimental Study Investigating Emotional Mimicry, Emotion Recognition, and Self-Reported Emotion Regulation
