Examination of emotion regulation in psychosis and a trans-diagnostic emotion regulation group therapy intervention for an acute inpatient setting: a mixed methods pilot evaluation study
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Date
27/11/2015Author
Lennon, Ruth Eleanor
Metadata
Abstract
Purpose: The systematic review aimed to review and evaluate constructs and measures of
emotion regulation (ER) in the psychosis spectrum population literature. The empirical study
aimed to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a trans-diagnostic emotion regulation (ER)
group developed for an acute inpatient setting.
Methods: The literature was systematically searched for research related to the measurement
of emotion regulation (ER) in a psychosis spectrum population. A mixed method design was
employed to assess acceptability and feasibility of a six session ER skills group delivered in an
acute mental health inpatient setting. The group intervention was developed and piloted over
a 5 month period. The mixed method design included a multiple single case series design and
qualitative exit interviews, conducted with eight participants.
Results: 24 papers met criteria for inclusion in the systematic review. 15 different self-report
tools were identified as measures of ER strategies in this review. Descriptive data from the
empirical study indicated high attendance and low attrition rates. Group level analysis
identified large effect sizes for change in ER skills. Case series data indicated that sustained
change, on at least one measured variable, occurred for four participants. Qualitative themes
triangulate findings related to acceptability of the group, change in ER strategies and increased
emotional acceptance.
Conclusions: ER conceptualisation is variable in the literature reviewed, where the
understanding of how ER and psychosis are linked is limited. The emphasis on the literature
reviewed is on cognitive strategies of ER. The pilot study indicates that the intervention is
feasible and acceptable, with preliminary evidence identifying potential clinical benefits. The
challenges in evaluating interventions in an acute inpatient environment are discussed.