The Mediating Role of Dysfunctional Attitudes in the Relationship Between Childhood Trauma and Anhedonia Among Students of Islamic Azad University, Ilam Branch

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Clinical Research Development Unit, 22 Bahman Hospital, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran

2 Education Organization, Ilam Islamic Azad University, Ilam, Iran

3 Clinical Research Development Unit, 22 Bahman Hospital, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.

10.34172/jhad.1202

Abstract

Background: The present study aimed to examine the mediating role of dysfunctional attitudes in the relationship between childhood trauma and anhedonia among students at the Islamic Azad University, Ilam Branch.
Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design. The research population consisted of all students enrolled at the Islamic Azad University, Ilam Branch, totaling 4,856 individuals in the 2023–2024 academic year. Based on Cochran’s sample size formula, a sample of 365 students was selected using convenience sampling. Research instruments included the Snaith–Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS) for anhedonia, the Bernstein and Fink Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), and the Weissman and Beck Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale (DAS). Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation, multiple regression, and bootstrapping procedures in SPSS.
Results: Findings indicated a positive and significant relationship between childhood trauma and anhedonia (β = 0.43, P < 0.001). Significant positive relationships were also observed between childhood trauma and dysfunctional attitudes (β = 0.43, P < 0.001), and between dysfunctional attitudes and anhedonia (β = 0.14, P < 0.001). The indirect effect of childhood trauma on anhedonia mediated by dysfunctional attitudes was significant (ab = 0.006, SE = 0.002, 95% CI = 0.002 to 0.010).
Conclusion: Based on the findings, dysfunctional attitudes partially mediate the relationship between childhood trauma and anhedonia. Accordingly, modifying maladaptive cognitive patterns may contribute to reducing the negative effects of trauma on students’ capacity for experiencing pleasure, although this mediating effect is relatively modest.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Health and Development Journal
Volume 14, Issue 1
May 2025
Pages 1-7

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History

  • Receive Date: 06 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 13 November 2025
  • Accept Date: 26 November 2025

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