Exploring the Impact of Emotion Regulation on Emotional Eating Behavior
among Female Young Adults
F. Palmen
i6325618
LK. Gollar Group 11
Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences
Bachelor Health Sciences
March 2024
, Abstract
Introduction
In current society, young adults face a variety of challenges encompassing academic pursuits,
professional endeavors, and personal relationships, often accompanied by heightened emotional
experiences (Torres & Nowson, 2007). This environment highlights the critical importance of
effective emotion regulation. Emotional regulation involves the ability to adjust emotional
experiences and expressions, thereby impacting individuals' reactions to different stressors and
emotional triggers (Gross & John, 2003). Studies by Gross & John (2003) have explored two types
on regulating emotions (1) directing attention towards, and (2) mentally reframing, suppression of
emotionally stimulating stimuli. These findings propose a functional framework for the cognitive
management of emotions.
Prior research indicates a strong connection between emotion regulation and eating behavior, with
individuals employing various regulation strategies demonstrating different eating patterns
(Heatherton & Baumeister, 1991). Deficits in emotional regulation skills have been associated with
increased vulnerability to stress-related eating behaviors and heightened emotional eating (Dohle
et al., 2014; Lavender et al., 2015). Emotional eating, distinct from physiological hunger, involves
consuming food in response to emotional triggers, often as a means of alleviating negative
emotions or self-soothing (Zellner et al., 2006). Findings suggest that individuals who engage in
emotional suppression may experience higher levels of psychological distress, which, in turn,
increases the likelihood of engaging in emotional eating behaviors (Mason et al.,2017).
While emotional eating affects individuals across various demographics, females are
disproportionately affected by emotional eating behaviors, often turning to food as a coping
mechanism for stress management and emotional regulation (Zellner et al., 2006). Research by
Macht (2008) highlights the gender-specific nature of emotional eating, with females being more
likely to engage in this behavior compared to males. Macht's study emphasizes that societal
expectations, cultural norms, and gender roles may contribute to the differential prevalence of
emotional eating among females, who often face greater pressure to conform to idealized body
standards and manage multiple role responsibilities.
