Understanding The Impact of Alcohol Dependence on Emotional Regulation and Coping Skills among Unmarried and Married Young Adult Males

Abstract

The present study examined the relationship between alcohol dependence, emotion regulation, and coping mechanisms among 300 young adult males (150 married, 150 unmarried) aged 18–30. Using standardized tools, ADS, ERQ, and the Brief COPE—the study aimed to explore how these psychological variables interact, with marital status as a moderating factor. Results indicated that higher alcohol dependence was strongly linked to emotional suppression and maladaptive coping (avoidant and emotion-focused), while cognitive reappraisal and problem-focused coping served as protective factors. Significant correlations were also found between emotion regulation and coping styles: suppression was associated with avoidant coping, while reappraisal correlated with problem-solving. No significant differences were found between married and unmarried participants in alcohol dependence or emotion regulation, though married individuals reported slightly higher emotion-focused coping. These findings highlight the need for integrating emotion regulation and adaptive coping strategies—such as CBT, mindfulness, and emotion-focused interventions, into prevention and treatment programs for alcohol-related issues