Examining Emotion Regulation-Based Behavioral Patterns in Adolescents with Performance Anxiety

The aim of this study is to identify and analyze emotion regulation-based behavioral patterns in adolescents with performance anxiety. This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews for data collection. A sample of 26 adolescents with performance anxiety from Tehran was selected. Participants were chosen based on theoretical saturation, and data were gathered through individual interviews. Data analysis was conducted using NVivo software and thematic analysis. The results revealed that adolescents used various emotion regulation strategies, including negative emotion acceptance, positive coping strategies such as goal focus and recalling past successes, and social support from family and friends. Adolescents who employed negative coping strategies like worry and avoidance experienced higher levels of anxiety. The study showed that emotion regulation plays a significant role in reducing performance anxiety in adolescents. Positive coping strategies and emotion acceptance were identified as key factors in alleviating performance anxiety. Additionally, social support from family and peer groups helped improve the emotional well-being of adolescents.