Psychopathology and Short-term Emotion: The Balance of Affects

Abstract

In this study, the relationship between short-term emotion expressions and dimensional ratings of internalizing and externalizing symptomatology was examined. Short-term emotions, defined as facial or vocal displays of emotion generally lasting less than 10 seconds and elicited by a specific and proximal event, were observed during recess in 71 children from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, who were between 4 and 8 years old. Internalizing and externalizing symptomatology was assessed through parent and teacher questionnaire. Sociometric ratings were obtained from peers on children's anger and aggression. It was hypothesized following Tomkins (1979) and others that one affect becomes predominant in the emotional experience of the individual. Different operationalizations of this concept were examined. Using regression analyses, externalizing symptomatology was found to be predicted by higher levels of anger, lower levels of happiness, and lower levels of sadness. Internalizing symptomatology was found to be predicted by higher levels of sadness and lower levels of anger. It was concluded on the basis of these data that the relationship between short-term emotion and internalizing and externalizing psychopathology is best understood as the balance between different short-term emotions. Results are discussed in the context of theories of emotion and their functions.