Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Tracy Masiello

Abstract

Depression is a serious mental disorder that impacts the individual and community. It has social, economic, emotional, and physical outcomes. Many psychological studies found that testing and identifying the relationship between attachment styles and depression could help understand the development of depression. Existing literature also indicated that cultural norms could influence the relationship between attachment styles and major depression. The purpose of this quantitative survey study, grounded in bioecological theory, was to test the relationship between attachment styles and major depressive disorder among 69 young adults in a homogeneous Lebanese culture. Data were collected using the Revised Adult Attachment Scale, World Health Organization Scale for major depression, and demographic survey. A multiple regression analysis indicated a statistically significant adverse correlation between insecure attachment style (anxious and avoidant) and depression. Avoidant attachment styles could predict severe levels of depression. Results may be used to understand the common personality traits of people with major depression living in a particular Lebanese homogeneous culture. Moreover, this study is an initial step for further research that would help understand the environmental and cultural influences for major depression development, allowing future intervention and prevention plans leading to positive social change.

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