Moods in everyday situations: Effects of combinations of different arousal-related factors

ObjectiveThis study examined women's mood responsiveness associated with patterns of stress hormone levels in everyday situations.MethodsSelf-reports of negative, positive, and energy dimensions of mood were obtained from 203 nurses throughout the day on a workday and on an off-work day during the luteal and follicular phases of the menstrual cycle. Individual differences in daytime norepinephrine and cortisol were assessed.ResultsPatterns of norepinephrine and cortisol levels were associated with ratings of the following moods: tired, sad, and happy. Phase of the menstrual cycle and the day factor (workday, off-work day) modified the association of mood ratings and stress hormone patterns.ConclusionThe experience of negative mood is associated with both hypoarousal and hyperarousal conditions. A homeostatic arousal-related concept of mood regulation is discussed.