What is it about?
When we have strong positive or negative emotions, research has shown that being able to differentiate on emotion from another is important to well-being. This study builds on that research by determining if the way we differentiate the emotions that others are experiencing is also important. We introduce this new concept, called Interpersonal Emotion Differentiation, and study how it is related to mental health in romantic couples.
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Why is it important?
We have developed a new way to think about and measure differentiating emotions across individuals. This is important because the way we differentiate each other's emotions may be important to building strong, healthy relationships and may help support well-being in both members of the relationships. We found that when one member of a couple differentiates their partner's emotions more, that partner has fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Perspectives
Conducting this research made me appreciate how much close relationships can help make our lives better and be a place to feel connected and seen by others. I hope this article highlights to people the importance of being thoughtful in their understanding of others emotions and how that process can positively benefit others.
Ella Sudit
American University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Interpersonal emotion differentiation., Emotion, September 2025, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/emo0001579.
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