The Impact of Emotional Regulation on Emotional Distress Among Syrian Refugee Women in Turkiye: The Moderating Role of Social Support

Background and purpose: Turkiye hosts 3.2 million Syrian refugees. Refugee populations often experience elevated levels of emotional distress, meriting exploration into factors that may offset distress levels. This study examines the relationship between emotional regulation and distress, with social support as a moderator, among 159 Syrian refugee women residing in Turkiye. We hypothesized that 1) Emotional regulation is associated with decreased levels of emotional distress; 2) Social support moderates the relationship between emotional regulation and emotional distress.

Methods: This cross-sectional study explores factors that influence emotional distress levels among Syrian women in Turkiye. Participants completed a survey between August and September of 2024 after being recruited by ASAM (Association for Social Development and Aid Mobilization), a non-government organization which offers services to people in need, including asylum seekers and refugees residing in Turkiye. Participants were eligible if they were female, originally from Syria, and aged 18-30 years. Age and region were selected as control variables, with regions dichotomized into northern (Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara) and southern (Adana and Gaziantep). Predictors measured included emotional regulation and social support. Emotional distress was assessed with the Refugee Health Screening. A structural equation model was used to examine study hypotheses.

Results: In support of hypothesis 1, emotional distress was negatively associated with emotional regulation (B = -0.32, p <.001) and social support (B = -0.39, p < .001), indicating increased distress was associated with lower levels of emotional regulation and lower levels of social support. Hypothesis 2 was also supported, as social support significantly moderated the relationship between emotional regulation and distress (B = 0.13, p = .044), as indicated by a significant interaction effect. This suggests social support has a buffering effect, with greater levels of social support weakening the relationship between distress and lower emotional regulation. Region emerged as a significant control, having a significant positive relationship with distress (B = 0.30, p = .004) and indicating that individuals who reside in southern Turkiye experienced higher levels of distress compared to those who reside in northern Turkiye.

Conclusion and implications: Emotional regulation skills and social support networks among Syrian refugee women in Turkiye can offset symptoms of emotional distress. Investment in programs that aim to develop strong social support networks among Syrian refugees is needed, such as support groups and community initiatives that promote unity and inclusion. Mental health professionals seeking to enhance well-being can implement interventions that encourage the development of emotional regulation skills and assist in building strong social support networks. Support is particularly needed for women residing in southern Turkiye.