Submissive behavior as a transdiagnostic construct: Associations with internalizing symptoms and distress intolerance

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Submissive behavior is linked to significant impairment and adverse life outcomes.
• Understanding the transdiagnostic nature of submissive behavior is crucial for effective intervention.
• Internalizing symptoms and distress intolerance are common clinical concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the transdiagnostic nature of submissive behavior.
• To examine the association between submissive behavior and internalizing symptoms (social anxiety, depression, worry).
• To explore the relationship between submissive behavior and distress intolerance, and the moderating role of gender.

Main Methods:

• A community sample of 208 participants was utilized.
• Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate hypothesized relationships.
• Moderation analyses were conducted to assess gender differences.

Main Results:

• All three internalizing symptoms (social anxiety, depression, worry) were uniquely associated with greater submissive behavior.
• Distress intolerance was positively related to submissive behavior, independent of general distress.
• The associations between social anxiety, worry, and distress intolerance with submissive behavior were stronger in men than in women.

Conclusions:

• Submissive behavior is relevant to internalizing symptoms and distress intolerance.
• Findings highlight the importance of considering submissive behavior in clinical settings.
• Future research should further explore these relationships and their clinical implications.