A systematic review and meta-analysis of the late positive potential and internalizing psychopathology.
J Psychopathol Clin SciAug 13, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPsychiatry
Sarah B Barkley, Jadyn Trayvick, Mohan Li et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the relationship between the late positive potential (LPP) and internalizing psychopathology using 63 studies with 5,360 participants. The analysis found that depression was linked to a smaller LPP to positive stimuli (r = -.06), while specific phobia was associated with a larger LPP to negative stimuli (r = .21), indicating distinct emotional reactivity patterns in these disorders.
Key findings
- Depression was associated with a smaller LPP to positive stimuli (r = -.06, 95% CI [-.12, -.003]).
- Specific phobia was linked to a larger LPP to negative stimuli (r = .21, 95% CI [.02, .37]).
- Distress showed a smaller LPP to both positive (r = -.12) and negative stimuli (r = -.11).
- Fear was associated with a larger LPP to negative stimuli (r = .10, 95% CI [.03, .16]).
Why it matters
Understanding the LPP's association with internalizing psychopathology can enhance the assessment of emotional reactivity in patients, potentially guiding more tailored therapeutic interventions for disorders like depression and anxiety.