Still smiling?: the implications of positive affect continuity and discontinuity during emerging adulthood

This study sought to describe patterns of positive affect (PA) stability and instability during emerging adulthood and to compare psychosocial functioning among those exhibiting distinct PA patterns. A theory-driven model was also tested to determine longitudinal links between PA, executive functioning, internalizing problems (i.e., anxiety and depression), and substance use problems (i.e., drug and alcohol use). A total of 102 emerging adults (M age at time one = 18.95 years; SD = 1.14, 81% female) reported on their PA at two time points (i.e., at baseline and 18-24 months later). Participants also reported on their internalizing and substance use problems and completed an executive functioning task at time two. Results indicated that participants followed five patterns of PA stability/instability: Stable Low PA, Stable Moderate PA, Stable High PA, Increasers, and Decreasers. The Stable Low PA grouped exhibited greater internalizing and drug use problems compared to peers. Indirect effects of PA on internalizing and substance use problems via executive functioning were nonsignificant. Findings can aid in the refinement of theoretical models regarding temperament development, and its psychosocial implications, during emerging adulthood. The present results can also facilitate assessment, prevention, and intervention efforts for promoting well-being in this developmental period.