The role of emotional functioning in the relationship between health anxiety and cyberchondria

Abstract

Access to health information can have positive effects in the form of increased health awareness. However, self-diagnosis based on information available on websites can be dangerous, causing distress as an increasing amount of time is spent on searching. The main aim of the study was to determine the role of emotional functioning in the relationship between health anxiety and cyberchondria. The study included N = 615 participants aged 18 to 83 years (M = 43.86, SD = 14.57). The authors used the Cyberchondria Severity Scale, the Short Health Anxiety Inventory, the Life Orientation Test, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, and the Kessler 6 Psychological Distress Scale. The results demonstrate that health anxiety is significantly related to cyberchondria and that pessimism and difficulties in emotion regulation act as mediators in this relationship.

The Moderating Role of Health Literacy and Health Promoting Behavior in the Relationship Among Health Anxiety, Emotional Regulation, and Cyberchondria

“…Numerous scholarly investigations have been conducted to examine the correlation between health anxiety, emotional control, and health literacy as potential predictors of cyberchondria among individuals. 13,22 But we have not examined the influence of health-promoting behavior on cyberbullying among the population of Pakistan. Therefore, this study aims to examine the moderating role of health literacy and health-promoting behavior of individuals in the relationship between health anxiety and cyberchondria with the mediating role of emotion regulation.…”

“…The emotions experienced at the moment can selectively influence and distort perception, either boosting optimism or intensifying a sense of fear. 22 According to Garnefski and Kraaij, "emotional regulation" refers to the process of attempting to alter one's emotional state by inducing or extending emotional experiences or by modifying their frequency, intensity, or duration. 23 To achieve one's goals, emotional regulation must be adaptable.…”

“…The emotions experienced at the moment can selectively influence and distort perception, either boosting optimism or intensifying a sense of fear. 22 …”