Emotion Regulation and Valance Bias

Authors

Drue Marr, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Catherine Brown, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Maital Neta, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

Spring 2016

Document Type

Poster

Citation

Poster, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Research Fair, Spring 2016.

Comments

Copyright (c) 2016 Drue Marr, Catherine Brown, Maital Neta

Abstract

In this study we wanted to look at the affects of emotion regulation on individual differences in valance bias. The ability to regulate emotions brings into question how difficult/easy it is for individuals that have a more natural positive bias/disposition to them, or have a more natural negative bias/disposition to them. We would expect someone with a negative disposition to have a more difficult time regulating his or her emotions, as evidenced by the elevated EMG levels and EDA readings that we acquired. The purpose of this study was to better understand the way one perceives surprised expressions, as surprised expressions are generally more of an ambiguous type of expression, and how they can act as a gateway to interpret one’s overall social and emotional bias. These interpretations can help us understand how one regulates their emotions, which could help those with a more negative bias, obtain the tools necessary to develop a healthier and more positive outlook on life.