The Relationship of a Measure of Frustration Intolerance with Emotional Dysfunction in a Student Sample

This study extended earlier research (Harrington in Cong Ther Res 30:699–709, 2006) on the relationship of the multidimensional Frustration Discomfort Scale (FDS) with measures of depressed mood, anxiety
and anger, independent of self-esteem. The study employed a non-clinical student sample (N = 323) and measures of both state and trait anger and anxiety. In addition, the Unconditional Self-Acceptance Questionnaire
(USAQ) was also used to specifically assess REBT self-acceptance beliefs regarding self-worth, as well as a measure of self-esteem.
A Serbian version of the FDS was developed for use in the study. Consistent with the earlier research, significant predictive
relationships were found, whilst controlling for self-worth, between entitlement and anger, emotional intolerance and anxiety,
and discomfort intolerance with depressed mood. Emotional intolerance also proved to be a significant positive predictor of
depression, whilst achievement frustration had a negative relationship with depression. Overall, the FDS dimensions had a
weaker relationship with emotional states than traits. The results are discussed in regard to the relationship between FDS
dimensions and dysfunctional emotions in a non-clinical sample.