Anxiety Disorders: Emotions, Emotion Regulation and Treatment Methods

Abstract

We experience many emotions in daily life and these emotions play a vital role in many areas of life. While these emotions are mostly normal and functional, excessive, intense and prolonged emotions can seriously damage the functionality of the person. When we take a look at the list of disorders under the title of anxiety disorders, it is seen that emotional processes have a significant effect in each of these areas. However, contrary to popular belief, it is known that not only some core emotions such as anxiety and fear, but also disgust, anger, guilt and shame have a role to be considered. In this study, the role of these emotions and emotion regulation skills in anxiety disorders is discussed. Subsequently, how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Metacognitive therapy address emotions in psychotherapy when working with anxiety disorders is briefly mentioned. This study is intended to provide a basis for a better understanding of the role of emotions in psychotherapy and to offer new perspectives for studies in this field.