A Study on Emotional Regulation, Alexithymia and Coping Strategies among Adults

Abstract

Emotional regulation refers to the ability of an individual to effectively manage and respond properly to emotional experiences. Alexithymia is the inability to understand and express one's emotions appropriately, which affects an individual's mental health. The present study aimed to understand the relationship of emotional regulation, Alexithymia, and Coping strategies among adults. For this purpose, a sample of 76 individuals in the age range of 18-30 years was taken. Standardized measures of Emotional regulation, Alexithymia, and coping strategies were administered to the participants. The study found a significant positive correlation among the components of the Alexithymia scale, which suggests that if a person is unable to understand their emotions, they face difficulty appropriately describing their emotions and indulge in externally oriented thinking. Additionally, the result shows a significant positive correlation between inability to describe emotions and reappraisal. Conversely, externally oriented thinking showed a significant negative correlation with coping strategies. Accurately comprehending one's emotions is crucial. Failure to recognize emotional states can impede effective stress management. Moreover, many individuals remain unaware that challenges in understanding feelings and emotions constitute a genuine concern. Increasing awareness regarding emotional regulation on social media and college campuses, etc., may help individuals manage stress more effectively.