The role of cognitive effort in emotion regulation

Abstract

Empirical studies on emotion regulation (ER) have increasingly focused on understanding the role of cognitive effort throughout ER processes. Cognitive effort is an essential component of various ER stages: from the selection of ER strategies, through their implementation, to the post-regulation effects. During the selection phase, individuals prefer strategies that entail lower cognitive demands, striking a balance between efficacy and expended effort. Empirical evidence in the implementation phase underscores the necessity of cognitive effort in ER, as indicated by subjective reports and physiological markers. Moreover, the engagement of cognitive effort undergoes a cost-benefit analysis, wherein perceived costs may impede effective regulation and exacerbate negative emotions. Beyond immediate regulation, the effects of cognitive effort may manifest in subsequent resource depletion and influence the selection of future regulatory strategies. Understanding the intertwined interplay between cognitive effort and ER is crucial for elucidating crucial components during ER processing and their implications for individual well-being.