The role peer responses to adolescent expression of emotions plays in their emotion regulation: A systematic literature review

Abstract

Introduction

Peer responses to adolescents’ emotional expressions (PREE), are thought to influence the continued development of emotion regulation (ER). Unsupportive (e.g., dismissive) PREE, for example, are expected to be associated with greater maladaptive ER. Poor ER is known to place adolescents at risk of psychopathology. The aim of this systematic review was to collate and synthesize the emerging evidence exploring the role that peer emotion socialization, specifically PREE, plays in adolescent ER and identify future directions.

Methods

In adherence with PRISMA guidelines, PsychINFO, Medline Complete, CINAHL Complete, Scopus and Web of Science were searched on April 20th, 2021, May 28th, 2022, and April 12th, 2023 for English language reports published after 1998. To be included, studies needed to report on PREE and its relation to adolescent ER.

Results

A total of eight studies, one qualitative and seven quantitative, met inclusion criteria and had a combined N of 785 participants (aged 10–18 years). Studies were primarily undertaken in the US and mostly included males and females, with one study only including female participants.

Conclusions

Although only eight studies were identified, the review identified preliminary evidence for an association between PREE and ER in adolescents. This association appeared to vary depending on adolescent gender, age, the closeness of the friendship and the PREE. Several limitations were identified, and suggestions are made for future research in this emerging area.