EEG-based multivariate pattern analysis reveals the control mechanisms of emotion regulation through distancing

• Jing Wang ^[1] ; Qing Li ^[2] ; Zhifang Li ^[2] ; Antao Chen ^[3]
  1. [1] Liaoning Normal University

     Liaoning Normal University

     China

     
  2. [2] Southwest University

     Southwest University

     China

     
  3. [3] Shanghai University of Sport

     Shanghai University of Sport

     China

     

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• Localización: International journal of clinical and health psychology, ISSN 1697-2600, Vol. 24, Nº. 1, 2024, págs. 71-80
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • Abstract Background/objective A neurocognitive model of distancing has systematically identified a set of brain regions that support the control mechanisms for emotion regulation (ER). However, the temporal dynamics of these control mechanisms during ER remains unclear.

    Method To address this issue, we recorded behavioral and electroencephalogram (EEG) data to compare proactive and reactive ER modes in an adapted ER task (N = 30 adults). In different ER modes, participants were instructed to downregulate their negative emotional experiences by applying the reappraisal tactic of distancing.

    Results The behavioral results showed that proactive ER, which involves preparing for the upcoming regulation, reduced the negative emotional experience more than reactive ER, which involves no preparation process, in the reappraisal-negative condition. This indicated that proactive ER was more effective than reactive ER in regulating negative emotions. Event-related potential (ERP) and multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) results showed that ER through distancing involved two phases: First, the reappraisal cue enhanced the allocation of attention to activate the mental building blocks and constructed a new perspective in the preparation process. Second, participants who benefited from the preparation process initiated the ER earlier and adaptively re-engaged in the ER if time permitted.

    Conclusions Taken together, the control mechanisms underlying the preparation process influence the timing of ER, while the control mechanisms underlying the regulation process determine the regulatory effect.