L'ouverture émotionnelle

"Emotional Openness” (EO) is a multidimensional model of affect processing, as represented by the individual. It refers to both actual emotion theory (e.g. Davidson, Scherer & Goldsmith, 2003) and experiential and emotion-focused therapy (e.g. Greenberg & Paivio, 1997; Elliott & Greenberg, 2002). The model proposes five factorial and evidence based dimensions of affect processing: Cognitive-Conceptual Representation (REPCOG), Perception of Internal (PERINT) and External (PEREXT) Bodily Indicators, Communication of Emotion (COMEMO) and Regulation of Emotion (REGEMO). A supplementary dimension, called Normative Restrictions of Emotion (RESNOR), refers to social restrictions of affectivity.

Using a theory based, psychometric and factorial construction rationale, different instruments have been developed: the “Dimensions of Openness to Emotion” (DOE) instrument (“Dimensions de l'Ouverture Emotionnelle” in the original French version), a trait-oriented 36 items questionnaire (DOE-36), and a 20 items short version (DOE-20), both with good reliability and factorial model properties. In order to describe actual processes/states of affect processing we developed the DOE-state (15 items) and recently the DOE-self-monitoring (6 items), a short form to be integrated into daily life affect monitoring using the “ambulatory assessment” methodology (e.g. Reicherts, Salamin, Maggiori & Pauls, 2007). Adapted language versions of the DOE instruments are available in French, Italian, German, Spanish and English.

The manual presents a large number of validity studies which show plausible associations of the DOE dimensions with other emotion processing instruments (TAS-20; TMMS), and with personality factors and other trait-like personality characteristics (e.g. social competencies, empathy). However, the model of Emotional Openness proposes a particular psychological space of the person's representation of emotion processing and provides trait, state and self-monitoring measures. The model and the DOE instrument have been tested against a variety of clinical disorders and problems, such as Dependence and Personality Disorders, including dual diagnosis, eating disorders and problems, somatoform disorders, phobic and gambling behaviors (using experimental studies), and burnout, and important effect sizes have been attained. Clinical treatment studies revealed plausible changes in affect processing and the treatment sensitivity of the DOE instrument. Based on the EO model, specific intervention modules are developed to improve affect processing.