Predicting Anxiety Symptoms Based on Confrontation With Existential Issues: The Moderating Role of Defense Mechanisms

Introduction: One of the most common and recent highlighted psychological problems is anxiety. This study investigated the moderating role of defense mechanisms in the relationship between confrontation with existential issues (death, freedom, isolation, and meaninglessness) and anxiety. Methods: A total of 389 students (218 men and 171 women) of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad City, Iran, studying in the academic year 2017-2018, were selected as the research sample. The study data were collected using anxiety subscale of depression anxiety stress scale, death anxiety scale, the third edition of UCLA loneliness scale, subscale of meaning in life from the meaningfulness of life questionnaire, scale of responsibility in California psychological inventory, and defense style questionnaire. The obtained data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation test and stepwise and hierarchical regression analyses. Results: Mature and immature defense mechanisms moderate the prediction of anxiety symptoms by confrontation with loneliness and responsibility. Neurotic defense mechanisms moderate the prediction of anxiety symptoms by confrontation with death, anxiety, loneliness, and responsibility. Conclusion: Defense mechanisms affect the relationship between confrontation with existential issues and anxiety.