Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale

What it measures

A comprehensive multidimensional measure of emotion regulation difficulties. Widely used in research on borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, substance use, and self-harm. Distinguishes types of ER difficulties for targeted intervention.

Response format

Likert (1–5, almost never to almost always)

Representative items

• When I'm upset, I become out of control. (Impulse Control)
• When I'm upset, I believe that I will remain that way for a long time. (Non-Acceptance)
• When I'm upset, I have difficulty thinking about anything else. (Goal-Directed)
• I am confused about how I feel. (Emotional Clarity)
• When I'm upset, I believe that my feelings are valid and important. (R, Non-Acceptance)

This is a licensed instrument — representative items are shown for reference only. Obtain the original scale materials from the publisher before use in research.

Usage notes & scoring

(R)=reverse-scored. Six subscale scores and a total score. Widely used as an outcome in DBT and emotion-focused interventions. DERS-16 short form available (Bjureberg et al., 2016).

Recommended companion scales

Citation

Gratz, K.L., & Roemer, L. (2004). Multidimensional assessment of emotion regulation and dysregulation: Development, factor structure, and initial validation of the DERS. Journal of Psychopathology and Behavioral Assessment, 26(1), 41–54.

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