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The Mediating Role of Rumination in the Relation between Basic Psychological Need Frustration and Depressive Symptoms
Andreas Heissel1, Anou Pietrek2, Maria Kangas3
1Social and Preventive Medicine, Department of Sports and Health Science, Intra-Faculty Unit "Cognitive Sciences", Faculty of Human Science, and Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Research Area Services Research and e-Health, University of Potsdam, 14469 Potsdam, Germany.
Abstract:
Research within the framework of Basic Psychological Need Theory (BPNT) finds strong associations between basic need frustration and depressive symptoms. This study examined the role of rumination as an underlying mechanism in the association between basic psychological need frustration and depressive symptoms. A cross-sectional sample of N = 221 adults (55.2% female, mean age = 27.95, range = 18-62, SD = 10.51) completed measures assessing their level of basic psychological need frustration, rumination, and depressive symptoms. Correlational analyses and multiple mediation models were conducted. Brooding partially mediated the relation between need frustration and depressive symptoms. BPNT and Response Styles Theory are compatible and can further advance knowledge about depression vulnerabilities.
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