Pathways from Trait Emotional Intelligence to factors of distress in Rosacea: The mediating role of Social Phobia and Self-Esteem

Background: Rosacea is a skin disease characterized by facial erythema and inflammatory pustules that may result in emotional distress. Social Phobia and Self-Esteem appear to be linked to the development of higher levels of distress in dermatological conditions, while Trait Emotional Intelligence (Trait EI) has been consistently associated with greater levels of adaptation to one's chronic condition. Hence, it seems extremely relevant to observe the interplay between these dimensions in the context of Rosacea. The goal of the current study is to test the hypothesis that an association between Trait EI and General Distress, in individuals with Rosacea would be mediated by Self-Esteem and Social Phobia. Methods: Questionnaires were administered to 224 individuals suffering from Rosacea to assess Trait EI, Social Phobia, Self-Esteem, and General Distress. Results: Results highlighted that Trait EI was positively related to Self-Esteem and negatively related to Social Phobia and General Distress. In addition, both Self-Esteem and Social Phobia showed a mediating role in the relationship between Trait EI and General Distress. Limitations: The main limitations of this work consist in the cross-sectional nature of the data, the small number of participants, also it was not possible to differentiate the participants according to the type of rosacea. Discussion: These results emphasize how individuals with Rosacea may be vulnerable to internalizing states and how high levels of Trait EI may constitute a protective factor for the onset of distressing states and it would be useful to create programs aimed at fostering Trait EI in Rosacea sufferers.