Research has recently focused on the dynamic process of emotion regulation, seeking to shed light both on its implementation/maintenance and on the factors that predispose it to be flexible and adaptive (e.g., repertoires of strategies, variability). Nurses are frequently confronted with emotionally demanding situations that may expose them to significant psychological strain. The ability to regulate their emotions is a crucial resource, not only for safeguarding personal mental health but also for sustaining professional motivation and ensuring quality of care. Understanding how emotion regulation processes work in these professionals is therefore essential for preventing illness and promoting well-being both personally and professionally.
A total of 637 nurses completed an online survey including, among others, the Regulation of Emotion System Survey (RESS) and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (IT-DERS-SF). A k-means cluster analysis (NbClust in R) identified three distinct profiles based on RESS subscales (assessing the use of six emotion regulation strategies).
The analysis yielded three clusters: an engagement propensity profile, a suppression propensity profile, and an average profile. Notably, the profiles align with patterns documented in previous research across different cultural and professional contexts, including studies employing latent profile analysis. In addition to systematic differences in the range/patterns of repertoires the participants rely on, the profiles that emerged showed differences in their associations with dysregulation of negative emotions. The results indicated significantly lower levels of emotion regulation difficulties among those in the average profile and significant differences in the specific types of difficulties (e.g. clarity, impulsiveness, etc.) between the other two groups.
The findings highlight the heterogeneity of emotion regulation among nurses and suggest meaningful distinctions that can guide the development of tailored interventions. Recognizing these profiles offers practical directions for fostering adaptive regulation strategies, reducing emotional vulnerability, and supporting well-being within healthcare organizations.