Aim: Social anxiety is a prevalent concern during emerging adulthood and is often associated with heightened sensitivity to rejection and negative self-perceptions. This study examines the mediating role of body image in the relationship between rejection sensitivity and social anxiety among emerging adults. Materials and Methods: A total of 300 participants aged 18-29 completed measures assessing rejection sensitivity, body image, and social anxiety. Results: Findings suggest that individuals with high rejection sensitivity are more likely to experience negative body image, which in turn increases their levels of social anxiety. Body image emerged as a significant mediator, indicating that emerging adults who are more sensitive to social rejection may internalize these experiences as negative self-evaluations, particularly regarding their physical appearance. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of addressing body image concerns in interventions aimed at reducing social anxiety, particularly for individuals prone to rejection sensitivity. Understanding this mediation pathway may provide insights for developing more targeted approaches to support mental health during the transition to adulthood.

This review explores the intricate relationship between hormonal fluctuations and emotional regulation,
emphasizing the critical role of hormones in mood, stress responses, and psychological well-being. By
examining key hormones involved in emotional regulation—such as those from the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-
Adrenal (HPA) axis, gonadal hormones (estrogen and testosterone), thyroid hormones, oxytocin,
and metabolic hormones like insulin, leptin, and ghrelin—we uncover how these biochemical messengers
impact emotional states and contribute to mood disorders. The paper discusses methodological challenges
and future research directions, highlighting the necessity for interdisciplinary approaches to deepen our
understanding of hormonal influences on emotional regulation.
The review underscores the importance of considering hormonal mechanisms in developing targeted treatments
for mood disorders, advocating for a holistic perspective that bridges endocrinology and psychology.
By integrating current research findings with clinical implications, our objective is to enhance the biological
foundation of emotional regulation, paving the way for innovative therapeutic strategies and improved
mental health care. This comprehensive overview aims not only to consolidate existing knowledge but also
to identify gaps in research, encouraging further exploration into the hormonal underpinnings of emotional
states. Through this endeavor, we aspire to contribute to a broader understanding of emotional regulation,
offering new perspectives on treating mood disorders and enhancing overall emotional well-being.