The Formulation of a Model of Predicting Cognitive Emotion Regulation Based on the Components of God-Image, Self-Image, and Attachment Styles with the Mediation of Ego Strengths

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a structural model of predicting cognitive emotion regulation based on the components of God-image, self-image, and attachment styles with the mediation of ego strengths.

This correlational study applied the methodology of structural equation modeling (path analysis). The participants, who were selected by the convenience sampling, included 250 students from the University of Tehran and Shahed University. Janbozorgi's God-image and self-image questionnaire for spiritual interventions, Collins and Read's attachment style questionnaire, Garnefski's cognitive emotion regulation questionnaire, and Markstrom's ego strengths questionnaire were used. The data were analyzed by the SPSS-26 and LISREL.

According to the structural equation modeling, the initial conceptual model did not have the desired initial fit and the paths of God-image and avoidant attachment style were not significant. After omitting these paths, the modified model had a desired fit. In the modified model, self-image, self-concept, and ambivalent attachment style were able to predict adaptive and non-adaptive cognitive emotion regulation by mediating ego strengths. Moreover, God-image and secure attachment style could predict non-adaptive regulation without mediating ego strengths.

Based on the results, it can be said that the higher God-image versus God-concept in individuals, the more non-adaptive cognitive emotion regulation in them. In addition, secure attachment style decreases non-adaptive cognitive emotion regulation in individuals. Self-image, self-concept, and ambivalent attachment style with the mediation of ego strengths predict the strategy of adaptive and non-adaptive cognitive emotion regulation. Therefore, we can consider such variables in the interpersonal relationships and educational, family, religious, spiritual, and therapeutic issues.