Separation, loss, and posttraumatic symptoms: A path analysis model exploring the role of attachment and defense mechanisms in people who experienced a significant mourning or a separation.

Abstract

Objective: Interpersonal loss, whether through bereavement or separation, can trigger profound emotional distress. While grief is a natural and universal process, some individuals develop maladaptive responses, increasing their vulnerability to posttraumatic symptoms. The present research aimed to explore the association between risk factors for posttraumatic symptoms among individuals who have experienced loss, specifically investigating the role of anxious attachment and defense mechanisms.

Method: The study included 405 participants who reported experiencing at least one significant loss, either through bereavement or separation from a significant individual. Participants completed a survey comprising the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, the Forty-Item Defense Style Questionnaire, and the Relationship Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using a path analytic approach.

Results: Among the participants, 52% reported symptoms indicative of a probable presence of posttraumatic stress disorder. Fearful and preoccupied attachment styles were significantly and positively associated with posttraumatic symptoms. Furthermore, neurotic and immature defenses mediated these relationships. The effects of time since the loss and type of loss were controlled as potential covariates.

Conclusions: These findings highlight the significant role of anxious attachment and defense mechanisms in favoring posttraumatic symptoms in individuals who have experienced loss. Such data may provide useful insight to inform targeted clinical interventions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).