Mentalization as a mediator between psychological well-being, attachment styles, and treatment adherence: a structural equations model among Iranians with type 2 diabetes

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 MSc Student, Department of Health Psychology, Medical School, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Department of Health Psychology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

3 Professor, Endocrine and Metabolism Research Center, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

4 Professor, Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Department of Health Psychology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to explore the relationship between attachment styles, psychological well-being, and treatment adherence. Also, it examines the mediating role of mentalization in the connection between attachment, well-being, and adherence to treatment.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included 230 diabetic patients aged 20 to 65 who sought treatment at the Isfahan endocrinology and metabolism clinics from July to October 2021. Demographic and clinical data were recorded. All participants completed Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Questionnaire, Collins and Read Attachment Style Questionnaire, Mentalization Questionnaire (Ments), and Tobert's Self-Care Questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using correlation and structural equation modeling methods.
Results: A secure attachment style and psychological well-being were found to have a positive correlation with treatment adherence (p<0.05, T=4.32, p<0.05, T=2.79). Furthermore, mentalization was identified as a significant mediator in the relationship between psychological well-being, avoidant attachment style, and treatment adherence (p<0.05, T=4.38, p<0.05, T=2.05).
Conclusion: The study highlights the significant mediating role of mentalization between treatment adherence, psychological well-being, and avoidant attachment. It emphasizes the potential of mentalization to improve treatment adherence, especially among individuals with an avoidant insecure attachment style.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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International Archives of Health Sciences
Volume 11, Issue 1
February 2024
Pages 28-35

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History

  • Receive Date: 30 August 2023
  • Revise Date: 18 December 2023
  • Accept Date: 20 January 2024

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