In an era where scientific inquiry continually evolves, understanding the emotional landscape and coping mechanisms of aging populations has emerged as a focal point of academic research. A pivotal study led by researchers Y. Sun and K. Alavi seeks to illuminate this important domain through a comprehensive bibliometric analysis spanning nearly two decades, specifically from 2005 to 2023. By systematically evaluating literature on emotion management, coping strategies, and subjective well-being among older adults, the study contributes valuable insights into how these factors influence the lives of senior individuals.
The motivation behind this bibliometric analysis arises from a burgeoning interest in the psychological aspects of aging. As the global population ages, it becomes increasingly imperative to understand how older adults navigate their emotional environments and employ strategic coping mechanisms in response to life’s challenges. This study methodically collates data from a wide array of scholarly articles, revealing trends and patterns that underscore the multifaceted relationships between emotional management, coping strategies, and subjective well-being in older populations.
Utilizing bibliometric methodologies, the research captures the volume of publications, citation patterns, and emerging themes relating to emotional well-being in older adults. This quantitative approach not only organizes existing research but also identifies gaps in the literature that warrant further investigation. Importantly, bibliometric analysis offers a dynamic lens to observe how academic discourse surrounding these themes has evolved over time and to gauge scholarly interest in the topic.
One noteworthy finding from the analysis indicates an increasing prevalence of studies that recognize the significance of emotional management in contributing to overall well-being in aging populations. This shift reflects a broader societal recognition that emotional health is intrinsically linked to physical health and overall life satisfaction. As researchers have delved deeper into this area, they have unearthed various strategies that individuals utilize to cope with challenges, ranging from emotional regulation to seeking social support.
Coping strategies encompass a wide array of techniques that older adults use to adapt to life’s pressures, which can include problem-solving approaches, emotional seeking, or avoidance strategies. The study highlights how these strategies not only affect an individual’s mental health but also their physical health outcomes. Research shows that effective coping mechanisms can lead to enhanced overall well-being, thereby contributing to longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives for seniors.
The role of social relationships in emotional management and coping is emphasized throughout this study. As individuals age, the dynamics of their social networks often change due to various factors, including retirement, the loss of loved ones, or shifts in health status. The ability to cultivate and maintain meaningful social connections is correlated with higher levels of emotional well-being. Engaging with family, friends, and community members provides emotional support that can significantly buffer against feelings of loneliness and despair which can become more prevalent in older age.
Further analysis from this study reveals a growing awareness of the unique emotional challenges faced by diverse populations within the older demographic. Factors such as ethnicity, cultural background, and socio-economic status play critical roles in shaping emotional experiences and coping strategies. A deeper understanding of these dynamics could lead to more tailored interventions designed to support diverse older adults in managing their emotional health effectively.
As mental health discussions become more prominent in public discourse, advocates for older adults are increasingly demanding access to resources that promote well-being. Therefore, it becomes essential for researchers, caregivers, and policymakers to collaborate in fostering programs that bolster emotional management skills and enhance coping strategies for older populations. Whether through community-based initiatives or through the integration of mental health resources into primary care settings, collective efforts are necessary to meet the psychological needs of seniors.
Additionally, this study underscores the necessity of ongoing research into the effectiveness of various intervention strategies aimed at promoting emotional well-being among older adults. Future studies should explore longitudinal approaches that track emotional health over time, examining the efficacy of different coping strategies as individuals enter new life stages or face significant changes in their circumstances. This can provide invaluable data for developing evidence-based practices that support older individuals in harnessing their emotional resources.
As we look ahead, it is critical to recognize the implications of this research not only for academic scholarship but for broader societal understanding and support structures. Interdisciplinary collaborations can further enhance the ways in which health providers, policymakers, and researchers work together to ensure that the emotional needs of older persons are prioritized within healthcare systems.
This study serves as a call to action for stakeholders across various sectors to acknowledge the profound impact that emotion management and coping strategies have on the quality of life for older adults. As research in this field expands, it is paramount that the findings are translated into practices that empower seniors with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of aging with resilience and adaptive skill.
In conclusion, the bibliometric analysis conducted by Sun and Alavi not only highlights the importance of understanding emotional management and coping mechanisms in older adults but also sets a recognized trajectory for future research in this domain. By fostering a conversation around these critical issues, we can promote a societal shift that values emotional health and supports older individuals in leading fulfilling lives as they age.
Subject of Research: Emotion management, coping strategies, and subjective well-being in older persons
Article Title: Emotion management, coping strategies, and subjective well-being in older persons (2005–2023): a bibliometric analysis
Article References:
Sun, Y., Alavi, K. Emotion management, coping strategies, and subjective well-being in older persons (2005–2023): a bibliometric analysis.
Discov Psychol 5, 150 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44202-025-00459-9
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s44202-025-00459-9
Keywords: Emotion management, coping strategies, subjective well-being, older adults, bibliometric analysis.
