The mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation in the relationship between metacognition and anxiety levels

The primary aim of this study is to examine the mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation in the relationship between metacognition and anxiety levels among adults and to evaluate whether these variables differ based on various demographic factors. This research was conducted using a correlational research design. The sample consisted of 403 participants aged between 18 and 65, including 207 women and 196 men, who were reached through an online survey method. Data were collected using the Sociodemographic Information Form, the Metacognitions Questionnaire-30 (MCQ-30), the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ), and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). During the data analysis process, independent samples t-test, Pearson correlation analysis, one-way ANOVA, and mediation analysis using Hayes' PROCESS macro Model 4 were employed. The analysis revealed that female participants had significantly higher anxiety levels compared to male participants. Moreover, single participants scored significantly higher in rumination compared to married participants. It was also found that participants who received psychological support had significantly higher metacognition scores than those who did not receive such support. Additionally, a significant negative correlation was found between total metacognition scores and age. The main findings of the study indicated significant positive correlations between total metacognition scores and the subdimensions of catastrophizing, rumination, blaming others, and acceptance. Furthermore, a significant positive relationship was observed between total metacognition scores and anxiety levels. Mediation analysis revealed that the subdimension of catastrophizing fully mediated the relationship between the uncontrollability and danger subdimension and anxiety. Overall, the findings of this study highlight meaningful relationships among metacognitive processes, cognitive emotion regulation strategies, and anxiety levels. In addition to contributing to the academic literature, this study aims to support the development of effective intervention and guidance strategies applicable in clinical settings. Keywords: Metacognition, Cognitive emotion regulation, Anxiety level