Emotional regulation is the ability to influence what emotions one has, when one has them, and how they are experienced and expressed. In the context of social inclusion, emotional regulation is the key to smooth and harmonious interactions. A teenager with good regulatory skills can modulate the intensity and duration of their affective states, especially anger, fear, or sadness, preventing them from dominating social interaction.
When a teenager cannot regulate their emotions, they may have exaggerated reactions, such as disproportionate outbursts of anger at a comment or panic attacks before a public presentation. These behaviours are sources of alarm for peers, causing the young person to be perceived as unstable or difficult to deal with, which inevitably leads to isolation.
The “Tu Mejor Versión” modules teach cognitive reappraisal strategies and mindfulness techniques that allow young people to intervene before their emotions reach their peak. By controlling the expression of emotion, adolescents become predictable and reliable interlocutors. They can participate in difficult discussions, receive criticism, or handle the stress of group projects without destabilising the environment. This ability to maintain emotional stability under pressure not only benefits the young person, but also contributes to the cohesion and security of the group, making them a valued and well-integrated member of the social fabric.
Reference: Gross, J. J. (1998). The emerging field of emotion regulation: An integrative review. Review of General Psychology, 2(3), 271-299.