Developing a model of experiential avoidance based on childhood trauma and victimization, mediated by insecure attachment styles

Abstract

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop a model of experiential avoidance based on childhood trauma and victimization, with insecure attachment styles as a mediator.

Methods

This was a descriptive-correlational study using structural equation modeling. The study population consisted of all high school students in Khorramabad city in the academic year 2023–2024. A cluster random sampling method was employed. The sample size was 220, considering the possibility of sample attrition. The research instruments included the Illinois Bully Scale, the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ-II), the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, and the Attachment Style Questionnaire.

Results

Insecure attachment style partially mediated the relationship between predictor and criterion variables. Moreover, childhood trauma and victimization collectively accounted for 70 % of the variance in insecure attachment style, and childhood trauma, victimization, and insecure attachment style collectively explained 69 % of the variance in experiential avoidance.

Discussion and Conclusion

Therefore, it is recommended that schools implement interventions and training to improve childhood trauma, victimization, and insecure attachment in order to control experiential avoidance among students.