Understanding the Immediate and Longitudinal Effects of Emotion Reactivity and Deviation from the Balanced Time Perspective on Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety: Latent Growth Curve Modeling

Emotion reactivity (ER) captures the depth, sensitivity, and endurance of our emotional reactions, while deviation from a balanced time perspective (DBTP) characterizes our inflexibility and rigidity in adhering to specific time frames. This study investigates how ER and DBTP might predict the symptoms of depression and anxiety and DBTP’s mediating role between ER and the symptoms of anxiety and depression in a three-wave longitudinal investigation. Data from 148 university students (82 males, 55.4%) with the age range of 18–29 (M_age = 19.92, SD_age = 1.36) were collected at three time intervals using Emotion Reactivity Scale, Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory, Future Negative subscale, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, and Patient Health Questionnaire-9. The study utilized latent growth curve modeling (LGCM) within a structural equation modeling framework. Results showed that greater DBTP at baseline predicted increased anxiety and depression symptoms and longitudinally reduced anxiety symptoms. The mediation model clarified that, initially, DBTP mediated the relationship between ER and anxiety/depression symptoms; however, over time, DBTP functioned as a suppressor of anxiety symptoms. This study establishes DBTP’s predictive and dynamic significance for anxiety and depression, unveiling its mediating role in the interplay with emotional reactivity. These findings can inform tailored therapies addressing ER and temporal biases in this population.