RELATION BETWEEN AUTOMATIC THOUGHTS AND EMOTION REGULATION AMONG ADULTS

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of individuals' thoughts and emotions on their resilience and well-being, particularly focusing on how these factors impact their daily life outcomes. Utilizing a sample of 160 adults aged 18 and above, the research utilizes the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire and the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire developed by Nadia Garnefski to test its hypotheses. The study highlights the interconnectedness between automatic thoughts and emotion regulation, suggesting a reciprocal influence between these processes. It examines how different patterns of automatic thinking, such as cognitive distortions and schemas, affect strategies for regulating emotions like cognitive reappraisal, suppression, and acceptance. Additionally, the research delves into individual characteristics, such as personality factors and cultural influences, as potential modifiers of this relationship. Drawing from its findings, the study offers insights for clinical practice, including assessment and intervention strategies. It also proposes avenues for future research, such as cross-cultural and longitudinal studies, to deepen our understanding of the relationship between automatic thoughts and adult emotion regulation. The study emphasizes the importance of considering automatic thinking patterns in evaluating emotion regulation mechanisms and their potential impact on enhancing adult mental health and well-being.