Effects of trait emotion regulation on stress responsivity

Abstract

The present review critically examines research on the physiological consequences of reappraisal and suppression use, distinguishing between trait emotion regulation style, and instructed use of emotion regulation. Drawing on the stress reactivity literature, we will highlight methodological issues with past research that may limit our understanding of how emotion regulation affects our stress responses. Recommendations for future research are outlined; including a consideration of task differences and the inclusion of a formal acclimatization and baseline period. This allows for a clearer understanding of how emotion regulation strategies translate to health and can help inform the next generation of both emotion regulation, and cardiovascular reactivity, research.