Effect of Emotion Regulation Program on Negative Symptoms among Patients with Schizophrenia

Background: Negative symptoms are common in people with schizophrenia and may be caused by emotional deficiencies. Emotion regulation involves the application of adaptive strategies and skills include acceptance, reappraisal, and reflection, affect labeling, and social support to manage emotional experiences, which all allow individuals to achieve desired goals. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of emotion regulation program (EMP) on negative symptoms among patients with schizophrenia. Subjects and methods: The research was performed at the psychiatric inpatient unit of Minia Hospital for Mental Health and Addiction Treatment which located in New Minia City. Fifty patients with schizophrenic disorder were included (No=50). Each patient was evaluated through Personal as well as clinical data questionnaire, Negative Syndrome Scale, and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ). Results showed that there was a statistically significant variance in total negative symptoms, and emotion regulation scores among the studied patients after program implementation. The study concluded that emotion regulation program had a positive influence on patients' negative symptoms and emotion regulation. Recommendations: Psychiatric hospitals may encourage the use of emotion management interventions as a crucial part of the routine care and rehabilitation program for individuals with schizophrenia.