The relationship between gratitude, psychological distress and emotional regulation in young adults: A cross-sectional study

This study examines the interrelations between psychological distress, emotional regulation, and gratitude in young adults, with a specific focus on gratitude as a mediating variable. Grounded in psychodynamic theory, which views emotional dysregulation and distress as outcomes of unresolved unconscious conflict and impaired ego functioning, the research explores whether gratitude—conceived as a reflective and relational capacity—can modulate this relationship. A cross-sectional design was employed using validated self-report instruments administered to a sample of emerging adults aged 18 and more. Statistical analyses showed that gratitude significantly mediates the relationship between psychological distress and adaptive emotional regulation strategies (cognitive reappraisal), suggesting that cultivating gratitude may mitigate intrapsychic tension and enhance emotional functioning.