Experiential avoidance as a mediator between non-attachment to self, intolerance of uncertainty, and symptoms of depression among depressed subjects.

Abstract

This research study aimed to investigate the potential mediating role of experiential avoidance in the relationship between non-attachment to self, intolerance of uncertainty, and symptoms of depression among depressed subjects. The study sample consisted of (104) depressed adults. Four scales were administered to experiential avoidance, non-attachment to self, intolerance of uncertainty, and symptoms of depression. Participants completed a measure including the experiential avoidance Scale, non-attachment to self-Scale, intolerance of uncertainty Scale, and symptoms of depression Scale. The prominent results indicate that there is a positive (direct and indirect) mediating effect of the "repression-and-denial" dimension on the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and symptoms of depression. There is a negative (direct and indirect) mediating effect of the "repression-and-denial" dimension on the relationship between non-attachment to self and symptoms of depression. There is a positive (direct and indirect) mediating effect of the "distress intolerance" dimension in the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and depressive symptoms. These findings underscore the potential value of targeting the dimensions of experiential avoidance, in therapeutic interventions aimed at alleviating depression symptoms and improving psychological well-being.