Attachment, emotional regulation difficulties, psychological well-being and depression: A serial mediation model

Authors : Hatice Deveci Şirin

Pages : 2229-2256

Doi:10.48146/odusobiad.1791383

View : 60 | Download : 192

Publication Date : 2025-12-28

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Attachment anxiety is a fundamental variable associated with numerous psychopathologies. Depression, one of the variables associated with attachment anxiety, is a mental disorder that exhibits a comprehensive and complex structure in terms of its precursors and is commonly observed. This study investigated the mediating role of emotion regulation difficulties and mental well-being in the effect of attachment anxiety on depression. The sample consisted of 278 adults. The mean age of participants was 24.23 (SD=8.42, Range=40). Data were collected using the Experiences in Close Relationships–Relationship Structures Questionnaire (ECR-RS) Mother form, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale-Brief Form (DERS-16), The Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS), and the Depression, Stress and Anxiety Scale (DASS 21). According to the research findings, emotion regulation difficulties and mental well-being mediate the relationship between attachment anxiety and depression. When the research results are considered, high attachment anxiety increases emotion regulation difficulties and raises the risk of depression. Furthermore, high attachment anxiety increases emotional regulation difficulties, thereby significantly predicting a decrease in mental well-being and, consequently, an increase in the risk of depression. In line with the results obtained in the study, it can be said that providing support services related to emotional regulation skills and positive mental health to individuals experiencing attachment anxiety and at risk of depression is important for effective interventions.
Keywords : Kaygılı bağlanma, duygu düzenleme güçlüğü, mental iyi oluş, depresyon

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