Date of Award
1-1-2022
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ph.D. in Psychology
First Advisor
Laura J. Dixon
Second Advisor
Stefan E. Schulenberg
Third Advisor
Sarah A. Bilsky
School
University of Mississippi
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a complex disorder characterized by pervasive and uncontrollable worry. Numerous researchers have established theoretical models to explain the cognitive, emotional, and contextual processes that develop and maintain GAD. From these theories, intolerance of uncertainty (IU) and emotion regulation (ER) have emerged as two transdiagnostic processes that play key roles in this disorder. Extensive research has examined each of these processes individually; however, only four studies to date have specifically examined the association between IU and ER, and none of these studies have looked at the interconnection of these processes in GAD. The current study used an experimental design to investigate the association between ER deficits and the behavioral and emotional responses to an induced state of uncertainty. Specifically, this study investigated differences between individuals who exhibited GAD symptoms (GAD group) and control participants with no GAD symptoms (control group) in: 1) dispositional ER deficits and dispositional IU; 2) behavioral responses to uncertainty; 3) emotional responses to uncertainty; and 4) spontaneous use of ER strategies. The sample (N = 123) was recruited through the Department of Psychology’s Sona System. The GAD group (N = 63) and control group (N = 60) completed a series of questionnaires and a behavioral task intended to induce a state of uncertainty (i.e., the Beads Task). Emotional and behavioral responses were recorded throughout the Beads Task, and spontaneous use of ER strategies were measured following the Beads Task. Findings supported past research indicating elevated levels of dispositional ER deficits, IU, and negative affect in the GAD group, but did not support differences in behavioral outcomes. Additionally, these findings demonstrated varying results in regard to ER deficits in the role of negative affect, use of maladaptive ER strategies, and behavioral outcomes. The current study represents a step in connecting the mechanisms of ER and IU with GAD symptomatology; however, further research is needed for elucidating the integration of these processes in the role of negative affect and behavioral outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Schadegg, Mary J., "Transdiagnostic Processes of Generalized Anxiety Disorder: An Experimental Investigation Evaluating The Role of Emotion Regulation in Uncertain Contexts" (2022). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2721.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/2721