Eating Patterns, Emotional Regulation, and Mental Well-Being among University Hostel Students: A Correlational Study

Abstract

This study examined the relationships between eating patterns, emotional regulation, and mental well-being among university students residing in hostels. A quantitative correlational design was employed with a sample of 120 students aged 18–25 years. Standardized measures, including the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ), Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), and Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS), were used to assess the relationship. Results indicated a significant positive relationship between healthy eating patterns and mental well-being (r = .58, p < .01), while emotional regulation was moderately positively associated with well-being (r = .33). Unhealthy eating patterns showed a weak negative association with emotional regulation (r = ?.17). Gender differences revealed that female students reported higher mental well-being than males, although no significant differences were found in eating patterns or emotional regulation. Birth order was not a significant predictor of emotional regulation. These findings highlight the importance of promoting healthy eating and emotional regulation to enhance students’ psychological well-being.