The mediating role of defense mechanisms in predicting perceived stress based on attachment styles in patients with COVID-19

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to investigate the mediating role of defense mechanisms in predicting perceived stress based on attachment styles in patients with COVID-19. The research method was descriptive-correlational. The statistical population included all people in Tehran who were infected with COVID-19 in 1399, who completed the questionnaires online. 300 people were selected by available and voluntary sampling method. The research instruments included Collins and Reader attachment style questionnaires, Cohen et al. perceived stress questionnaires, and Andrews et al. Data analysis was performed by path analysis method. The results showed that the hypothetical model had a good fit and was confirmed. Also, the results of path coefficients showed that the path coefficient of immature attachment style to the defense mechanism was immature and psychotic, negative and significant. Also, the results of indirect path coefficient showed that the relationship between undeveloped defense mechanism and perceived stress with mediated secure attachment was significant. Thus, secure attachment style mediated by underdeveloped defense mechanisms predicted the perceived stress level of patients with COVID-19. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)