Relationship between Emotional Suppression, Frustration Tolerance and Psychological Distress among Children

Family structure plays a significant role in children’s emotional and psychological development. In recent decades, the rise in single-parent families has increased concern about the emotional well-being of children growing up in such environments. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between emotional suppression, frustration tolerance, and psychological distress among children from single-parent families. A sample of 140 participants was selected from educational institutions in Gujranwala, Pakistan, using a purposive sampling technique. Emotional suppression was measured using the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), psychological distress was assessed through the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), and frustration tolerance was evaluated using the Low Frustration Tolerance Scale. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and independent sample t-tests were used to analyze the data. Results indicated moderate levels of emotional suppression, frustration tolerance, and psychological distress among participants. Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between emotional suppression and frustration tolerance, as well as a significant positive relationship between frustration tolerance and psychological distress. However, emotional suppression showed a weak and non-significant association with psychological distress. Gender comparisons indicated that females reported slightly higher scores on emotional suppression, frustration tolerance, and psychological distress than males, though the differences were not statistically significant. The findings highlight the importance of understanding emotional regulation strategies and frustration management among children in single-parent families.