IMPACT OF DOOMSCROLLING ON EMOTIONAL REGULATION IN WORKING EMPLOYEES: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS

The increasing dependence on digital media has intensified individuals’ exposure to emotionally disturbing online content, leading to a behavioural pattern commonly referred to as doomscrolling. Doomscrolling involves repeated engagement with negative news and social media information, which can adversely affect emotional and psychological functioning. The present study investigates the effect of doomscrolling on emotional regulation among working employees, with psychological distress acting as a mediating variable. A quantitative correlational design was employed, and data were collected using standardized instruments assessing doomscrolling behaviour, psychological distress, and emotional regulation. Statistical analyses including correlation and mediation testing were performed. The findings indicated that higher levels of doomscrolling were significantly associated with increased psychological distress and reduced emotional regulation. Furthermore, psychological distress partially mediated the relationship between doomscrolling and emotional regulation. The study highlights the psychological risks of maladaptive digital consumption and emphasizes the need for workplace interventions that encourage healthy media habits and emotional resilience among employees.