Using Reinforcer Sensitivity Theory to predict difficulties in emotional regulation: Data from students in Mexico and the US

The present study assessed the capacity of revised reinforcement sensitivity theory (r-RST) to predict difficulties in emotional regulation (DER), and in both internalized and externalized anger difficulties. Participants were college students (N = 705) from Mexico and from the US. Regression analyses showed that both the behavior inhibition system (BIS) and impulsivity (IMP) are direct and significant predictors of all three dependent variables, in both samples. Reward interest is an inverse and statistically significant predictor of both internalized and externalized aggression. Although both samples share a common footing regarding the importance of BIS and IMP as predictors of the dependent variables, protection variables differed between the samples. The results of the study suggest that elements belonging to the sensitivity to punishment and sensitivity to reward domains interact to generate DER. Finally, the results suggest that personality theories derived from basic neurobiological processes are not exempt from cultural variations.