Supplementary file 1_Bound to thrive: self-efficacy and social support mediate the association of insecure attachment and resilience in healthy adults.docx

IntroductionInsecure attachment is a risk factor and predictor for mental disorders and suicide. The connection between insecure attachment and resilience—a protective factor which contributes to mental health—is of particular interest, although pathways are poorly understood. This study presents a comprehensive, integrative framework, investigating the mediating effects of social support (external resource) and self-efficacy (internal resource) on the relationship between insecure attachment and resilience.
MethodsThe sample comprised N = 339 healthy adults. Insecure attachment was analyzed using a refined version of existing dimensional approaches, assessing attachment anxiety and avoidance. Also, resilience, perceived social support, and self-efficacy were measured. Two distinct serial multiple mediator models were specified and tested to examine the differential direct and indirect pathways associated with anxiety and avoidance.
ResultsSignificant indirect effects via social support, self-efficacy, and their sequential combination were observed for both attachment anxiety and avoidance (all p < 0.05). The association between anxiety and resilience was partially mediated (direct effect: p < 0.001), whereas the association between avoidance and resilience was fully mediated (direct effect: p = 0.72).
DiscussionThe results highlight differences in the underlying mechanisms of the dimensions: While the psychopathology of avoidance is straightforward, considering anxiety additional factors seem crucial. Social support and self-efficacy effectively buffer negative consequences of burden. The findings suggest a shift in focus within intervention research—from hard-to-modify attachment to the more accessible targets self-efficacy and social support.