Confirmatory validation of the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale-Positive

Objectives Emotion dysregulation is a transdiagnostic factor central to the etiology and treatment of various clinical difficulties. Yet, research in this area has focused almost exclusively on emotion dysregulation stemming from negative emotions. The current study confirmed the factor structure of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale-Positive (DERS-P) and further examined its reliability and validity. Method Participants in Study 1 were 229 college students (M age = 19.37 years; 66.8% female; 67.2% White). Participants in Study 2 were 353 trauma-exposed community individuals (M age = 35.77 years; 57.8% female; 71.2% White). Results Findings supported the three-factor structure of the DERS-P. Mean levels of the DERS-P scales demonstrated convergent and discriminant validity and differentiated individuals with (vs. without) probable posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, alcohol use, and drug use disorders. Conclusions Findings provide additional support for the factor structure, reliability, and validity of the DERS-P, thereby adding to its clinical utility.