Dysregulation definition in psychology
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Dysregulation Definition in Psychology
Core Definition and Dimensions of Dysregulation in Psychology
In psychology, "dysregulation" generally refers to a person's impaired ability to manage or control certain internal processes, most commonly emotions or behaviors, in a way that is adaptive or appropriate to the situation. Emotional dysregulation, in particular, is a widely discussed concept and is often defined as patterns of emotional experience or expression that interfere with goal-directed activity or functioning . This includes difficulties in regulating the intensity and quality of emotions, leading to responses that are not suitable for the context or that persist longer than is helpful 47.
Researchers have identified several overlapping dimensions of emotional dysregulation, including:
- Decreased emotional awareness
- Inadequate emotional reactivity
- Intense experience and expression of emotions
- Emotional rigidity
- Difficulty with cognitive reappraisal (the ability to change one’s emotional response by reinterpreting the meaning of a situation) 12.
Dysregulation as a Transdiagnostic and Dynamic Process
Dysregulation is not limited to one specific disorder but is seen across a wide range of psychological conditions, making it a "transdiagnostic" feature. It is especially prominent in disorders such as borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, mood disorders, and trauma-related conditions 124789. Dysregulation can also refer to behaviors—such as self-injury, aggression, or substance use—that provide short-term relief but lead to long-term problems or distress .
Emotion dysregulation is increasingly understood as a dynamic process, influenced by both biological and environmental factors, and shaped by early experiences, especially those involving trauma or neglect 3468. It involves a complex interplay between emotions, thoughts, actions, and the context in which they occur .
Broader Applications: Goal and Action Dysregulation
Beyond emotions, dysregulation can also refer to difficulties in managing the level of abstraction in goal and action identification. This means struggling to flexibly shift between thinking about the "why" (abstract, purpose-driven) and the "how" (concrete, detail-oriented) aspects of actions, which can contribute to various psychological symptoms and disorders .
Conclusion
In summary, dysregulation in psychology refers to a breakdown or impairment in the ability to control or modulate internal processes—most commonly emotions or behaviors—in a way that is adaptive to the situation. It is a multifaceted, dynamic, and transdiagnostic construct that plays a central role in many forms of psychopathology, and understanding its dimensions is crucial for effective prevention and treatment 12346789+1 MORE.
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