Longitudinal mediation effect of hassles between neuroticism and dimensions of the tripartite model in college students.

Abstract

This study addresses a gap in the literature by exploring the longitudinal effects of hassles in mediating the relationship between neuroticism and the tripartite model of depression and anxiety. The research investigates these associations in a large sample of university students, utilising baseline and 6-month follow-up data. Initial assessments involved participants completing measures for neuroticism, depression and anxiety symptoms, and the occurrence of stress, followed by monthly assessments of stress, anxiety symptom and mood symptoms over a 6-month period. Our results illuminate the mediating role of daily hassles in the relationship between neuroticism and various dimensions of anxiety and depression, including general distress, specific depression, and anxiety symptoms. These findings underscore the significant impact of neuroticism and hassles on a broad spectrum of mood symptoms, offering valuable insights for both research and clinical practice. Discussions around the implications of these findings are provided in the our paper, where we also outline potential directions for future research and clinical applications.