Investigating the effects of self-distancing and processing mode on emotion regulation during self-reflection

This study investigated three proposed processes for reducing negative emotions during self-reflection. According to processing mode theory, adopting a concrete processing approach is effective in reducing negative affectivity. Self-distancing theory suggests that a combination of psychological distance and abstract processing serves to diminish negative affectivity. The construal-matching hypothesis posits that aligning the processing level of emotions with both the processing mode and psychological distance leads to a reduction in negative emotions. Notably, this study uniquely manipulated processing mode, self-distancing perspective, and construal level of emotions concurrently, a novel approach in research. A total of 231 emerging adults were randomly assigned to eight experimental conditions. Participants were instructed to recall an emotional memory based on their assigned condition, with subsequent measurement of their emotions. Reflection on the memory was then undertaken from either a self-distance or self-immersed perspective. Depending on their condition, participants focused on the "how" (concrete processing) or "why" (abstract processing) aspects of the event. The results revealed that the most significant decrease in negative emotions occurred when participants focused on the "why" aspects of the event, irrespective of their self-perspective and whether the event was associated with anger or guilt. Additionally, it was observed that during self-reflection, participants in the abstract processing condition utilized more insight and closure statements compared to those assigned to the concrete processing condition. Taken together, these findings underscore the pivotal role of the type of abstract processing employed during self-reflection in effectively reducing negative emotions.