Survey study, 2026

Does controlling personality traits help emotional regulation in women with PMS?

The study found that controlling neuroticism (a tendency toward negative emotions) was linked to emotional regulation differently in mild versus moderate PMS. The relationship was complex and depended on PMS severity.

Early or limited evidence 421 students from Qom University of Medical Sciences in Iran

What they did

Cross-sectional study of 421 students from Qom University of Medical Sciences in Iran (2018-2019). Participants completed three questionnaires: one diagnosing PMS type, one measuring emotion regulation, and one measuring personality traits including neuroticism.

What they found

Analysis of variance showed significant relationships between PMS and emotional regulation (F=2, p=0.04) and between PMS and neuroticism control (F=2, p=0.01). Multiple regression showed neuroticism control had a significant effect on emotional regulation in those with moderate PMS, and in those with mild PMS it changed symptoms by 0.03 and 0.01 units respectively.

What it means for you

Emotional regulation and personality traits appear linked to PMS severity. However, the study has unclear statistical reporting and cannot prove these relationships cause PMS changes. Findings are specific to Iranian students and may not apply elsewhere.

421

Sample size

0.04

P-value for PMS and emotional regulation relationship

0.01

P-value for PMS and neuroticism control relationship

About the study

Original title: Comparison of Emotional Regulation During Controlling Neuroticism in Different Types of Premenstrual Syndrome in Students
Authors: Arabshahi A, Mohammad-Beigi A, Namazi K et al.
Journal: Iranian journal of nursing and midwifery research
Year: 2026
Study design: Survey study
Participants: 421
What was tested: None
Open access: Yes
Read the paper: doi.org/10.4103/ijnmr.ijnmr_228_23

Topics

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)Menstrual cycle and mood Low mood and depression Mood swings and emotion regulation Students and academic performance

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