Negative Affect: An Overview
Negative affect (NA) is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of negative emotional states, such as anger, fear, sadness, guilt, and disgust. Negative affect is experienced in response to a variety of stimuli, including stressful or threatening events, losses, and physical and psychological pain (Meyer & Shack, 2017). It has been linked to a number of physical and psychological health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pain (Eisenberg & Golberstein, 2009). This article provides an overview of NA, including its definition, measurement, and associations with health outcomes.
Definition
NA can be defined as a psychological state characterized by aversive feelings and emotions, such as fear, sadness, guilt, and disgust (Meyer & Shack, 2017). The concept of NA is distinct from that of negative affectivity (NA), which refers to a stable personality trait that predisposes individuals to experiential negative affect (Watson & Clark, 1984). Although NA and NA are related, they are distinct concepts (Eisenberg & Golberstein, 2009).
Measurement
NA is typically measured using self-report questionnaires, such as the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS; Watson & Clark, 1984). The PANAS consists of two 10-item scales that measure positive and negative affect. Both scales are rated on a 5-point Likert-type scale, ranging from 1 (very slightly or not at all) to 5 (extremely). Other measures of NA include the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS; Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI; Spielberger, 1983).
Associations with Health Outcomes
NA has been linked to a number of physical and psychological health outcomes, such as depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pain (Eisenberg & Golberstein, 2009). Higher levels of NA have been associated with increased risk of major depressive disorder (MDD; Schatzberg & Nemeroff, 2004) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD; Weathers, Litz, Herman, Huska & Keane, 1993). Furthermore, NA has been associated with increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease (Luszczynska & Schwarzer, 2005). Moreover, higher levels of NA have been associated with increased risk of chronic pain (Bair, Robinson, Katon, & Kroenke, 2003).
Conclusion
In conclusion, NA is a psychological state characterized by aversive feelings and emotions, such as fear, sadness, guilt, and disgust. It is typically measured using self-report questionnaires and has been linked to a number of physical and psychological health outcomes, such as depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pain.
References
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