The relationship between attachment styles with social exclusion: difficulty in emotion regulation mediating role
Subject Areas : PsychologyMohamad Erfan Tahsiri 1 , Narges Sepahkar 2 , Amin Barazandeh 3 *
1 - M.A. Student in Clinical Psychology, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Isfahan, Iran
2 - M.A. Student in Clinical Psychology, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Isfahan, Iran
3 - Assistant professor, Faculty Member, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Isfahan, Iran
Keywords: Social Exclusion, Difficulties in Emotion Regulation, Attachment Styles, university students,
Abstract :
The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between attachment styles and social exclusion among university students, considering the mediating role of emotion regulation difficulties. A descriptive, correlational research design utilizing structural equation modeling (SEM) was adopted. The target population included students from the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences at the University of Isfahan, who were enrolled during the 2023–2024 academic year. Using random sampling, 250 students were selected and completed the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (Gratz & Roemer, 2004), the Social Exclusion Questionnaire (Hoof & Vromen, 2011), and the Adult Attachment Style Questionnaire (Collins & Read, 1990). Data were analyzed using AMOS statistical software. The results showed that secure attachment (β = -0.304, p < 0.001) and avoidant attachment (β = -0.154, p = 0.016) were significant negative predictors of social exclusion, while anxious attachment was not a significant predictor (β = -0.064, p = 0.318). Furthermore, difficulties in emotion regulation significantly mediated the relationship between attachment styles and social exclusion (p < 0.05). These findings highlight the significant roles of attachment styles and emotion regulation difficulties in individuals’ experiences of social exclusion. Accordingly, interventions focusing on emotion regulation training may serve as effective strategies to mitigate the negative consequences of insecure attachment styles, prevent experiences of social exclusion, and promote adaptive functioning following social exclusion.
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