Attachment orientation and depression: A moderated mediation model of self-silencing and gender differences

Background: While the effect of insecure attachment on depression is well established, findings pertaining to the relationship between specific attachment dimensions (anxious and avoidant) and depression are inconsistent. The role of interpersonal factors underlying this effect has been little explored. ‘Silencing the Self’, a socio-cognitive construct may provide important insights as a mediating pathway from insecure attachment to depression and help resolve the inconsistencies. Aims: The present study explored the mediating effect of self-silencing and the role of gender as a moderator in the relation between insecure attachment orientation (i.e. avoidant and anxious) and depressive symptoms. Method: Data was collected via an online survey, from 121 adults who were in a relationship. The participants were asked to complete three self-report questionnaires, assessing attachment orientation, silencing the self and depressive symptoms. Moderated mediation analysis was performed using conditional process analysis. Results: The results indicated that the effect of both insecure attachment dimensions on depressive symptoms was mediated by silencing the self. In addition, gender moderated the association between insecure attachment and self-silencing. Conclusions: This study adds to the literature on mediating pathways between insecure attachment and depression, and provides a new perspective for therapeutic interventions in the context of depression. It indicates that professionals should focus on current social context and relational schemas of individuals with an insecure attachment, especially women, while treating cases of depression in clinical settings.