Development and validation of a new yearning induction task: a cross-cultural study of Chinese and Swiss bereaved

Background: Yearning is a core symptom of prolonged grief disorder (PGD), typically manifesting as vivid counterfactual thoughts and bittersweet emotions. However, current self-report measures fail to capture the dynamic nature of yearning and are often compromised by social desirability bias. This highlights the critical need for accurate and objective tools to assess this complex emotional experience.Objective: This study aimed to develop and validate the Yearning Induction Task (YIT), an innovative experimental paradigm designed to induce yearning in bereaved individuals from China and Switzerland. We also sought to explore how cultural differences shape emotional and cognitive responses following experimentally induced yearning.Methods: A total of 231 bereaved participants (130 from China and 101 from Switzerland) were recruited. After completing baseline measures, participants were randomly assigned to either the yearning or control condition of the YIT. Momentary yearning and emotion responses were assessed both pre- and post-induction. Data were analysed using ANCOVA to examine cultural differences in the induction effect of the task.Results: The task demonstrated good interrater reliability across cultures but did not significantly alter momentary yearning levels. However, significant cultural differences emerged in emotional responses. Swiss participants predominantly showed increases in negative emotions, such as sadness, anger, and loneliness, following the yearning induction. In contrast, Chinese participants experienced a decrease in positive emotions, including happiness. In the control condition, Swiss participants reported declines in positive emotions (e.g. gratitude, love), while Chinese participants experienced an increase in happiness and a reduction in overall negative emotions.Conclusion: This study provided preliminary evidence for the reliability and validity of a novel task to induce yearning among Swiss and Chinese bereaved individuals. Cultural differences emerged in emotional responses to induced yearning, although construct validity was only partially supported. These findings highlight the importance of culturally sensitive assessment tools and interventions for yearning in PGD.