The Mediating Role of Emotion Dysregulation and Hopelessness in the Association Between Attachment and Meaning in Life

Meaning in life (MIL) is recognized as a protective factor for adolescent mental health, being associated with reduced risks of depression, suicidal ideation, and non-suicidal self-injury. This study examined associations between attachment styles and MIL, with hopelessness and emotion dysregulation as potential mediators. Participants were 2067 Spanish adolescents (51.9% male, 48.1% female; M age = 14.62, SD = 1.80) who completed validated measures of attachment, emotion dysregulation, hopelessness, and MIL. Structural equation modeling indicated that secure attachment was associated with higher MIL both directly and indirectly through lower levels of hopelessness and emotion dysregulation. Disorganized attachment was not directly associated with MIL but was indirectly associated with MIL through these vulnerabilities. Hopelessness emerged as the strongest mediator, while emotion dysregulation was associated with satisfaction and meaning only. Findings highlight psychological vulnerabilities as pathways linking attachment to MIL, with implications for clinical and preventive strategies.