Emotional dysregulation

Emotional dysregulation is a term used within the mental health community referring to an emotional response that is poorly modulated, and does not fall within the conventionally accepted range of emotive response. The response set is not necessarily negative, and is sometimes seen within the positive range of emotions. Common examples of emotional dysregulation might include disproportionate rage over something small, like a broken plate, or hysterical tears over a missed appointment.

Emotional dysregulation is typically associated with an experience of early psychological trauma, or chronic maltreatment (such as child abuse, child neglect, or institutional neglect/abuse). It is most commonly associated with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Complex post-traumatic stress, and Intermittent Explosive Disorder.