Social connectedness as a function of emotional regulation and cultural tolerance: A psychological perspective

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to examine the predictive role of emotional regulation and cultural tolerance in social connectedness, determining the extent to which these psychological factors contribute to interpersonal relationships. Methods and Materials: A correlational descriptive design was employed, with 400 participants selected using Morgan and Krejcie’s (1970) sample size table. Participants completed the Social Connectedness Scale (SCS), Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), and Cultural Tolerance Scale (CTS). Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to assess the relationships between variables, while a multiple regression analysis determined the predictive value of emotional regulation and cultural tolerance for social connectedness. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS-27, with a significance level set at p < 0.01. Findings: Descriptive statistics revealed a mean social connectedness score of 42.65 (SD = 6.87), an emotional regulation mean of 51.24 (SD = 8.14), and a cultural tolerance mean of 37.89 (SD = 7.92). Pearson correlation analysis indicated significant positive relationships between emotional regulation and social connectedness (r = 0.58, p < 0.01) and between cultural tolerance and social connectedness (r = 0.49, p < 0.01). The regression model was statistically significant (F(2,397) = 99.32, p < 0.01), explaining 38% of the variance (R² = 0.38, Adjusted R² = 0.37). Both emotional regulation (B = 0.45, β = 0.41, p < 0.01) and cultural tolerance (B = 0.38, β = 0.33, p < 0.01) significantly predicted social connectedness. Conclusion: The findings confirm that emotional regulation and cultural tolerance are significant predictors of social connectedness. Individuals with higher emotional regulation skills and greater openness to cultural diversity tend to experience stronger social bonds. These results highlight the importance of fostering emotional and cultural adaptability to promote social integration.