Alexithymia, Experiential Avoidance, and Perceived Empathetic & Social Self-Efficacy Among Adults

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between Alexithymia, Experiential Avoidance, and Perceived Empathetic and Social Self-Efficacy among Adults. This was a quantitative study with correlational research design. This study included both males and females in their adulthood, and three questionnaires were used to measure the discussed variables. The sample size was consisted of N=135 individuals (59 males, 76 females) with the age range of 20-35 years old. The data was gathered from different institutions of Lahore city through random sampling. The Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS), The Brief Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire (BEAQ), and Perceived Empathetic and Social Self-Efficacy Scale (PESSE) were administered for questionnaires. Statistical analysis tests were used to analyzed the data. The findings indicated that there is a significant relationship between alexithymia, experiential avoidance, and perceived empathetic and social self-efficacy among adults. Gender differences have seen between main variables amongst females. The implications of this study can promote emotional and empathic expression in interpersonal lives of the individuals. Continued exploration of these connections will guide treatment approaches, promoting healthier emotional and relational functioning.

Keywords: Alexithymia, Experiential Avoidance, Empathic Self-Efficacy, Social Self-Efficacy.