Abstract

Social anxiety is a common and intractable condition, with self-image playing a crucial role

in its development and persistence. Research by Hannah (2018) showed that people with a

positive self-image reported less social anxiety and used better emotion regulation strategies.

In contrast, those with a negative self-image tended to rely more on harmful methods like

emotional suppression. This reliance on suppression poses a significant problem. Spokas

(2008) found that it is more prevalent among socially anxious individuals and leads to

increased stress and interpersonal issues. Since romantic relationships are a key area where

these challenges arise, it is important to understand the relationship between self-image,

social anxiety, and emotion regulation in this context. This study intends to expand on this

foundation by examining how self-image and relationship satisfaction together affect the

connection between social anxiety and emotion regulation in romantic partnerships. In our

experimental design, we will manipulate self-image by creating either positive or negative

self-perceptions in participants. This will help us explore the causal effects on state social

anxiety, emotion regulation strategies, and relationship satisfaction. We hypothesize that the

negative self-image condition will result in higher social anxiety, lower relationship

satisfaction, and less effective emotion regulation. Additionally, the study will propose and

test a moderated mediation model. This model suggests that relationship satisfaction mediates

the connection between social anxiety and emotion regulation, and that the strength of this

mediation is influenced by the individual’s self-image. We predict that the indirect pathway,

where social anxiety disrupts emotion regulation by diminishing relationship satisfaction, will

be significantly stronger for those with a negative self-image. The findings will offer a deeper

understanding of these psychological processes and identify potential intervention points for

reducing social anxiety and improving emotional outcomes in romantic relationships.

Advisor

Garcia, Amber

Department

Psychology

Disciplines

Health Psychology | Social Psychology

Publication Date

2025

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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