| State and trait anxiety are both affected by trauma. However, the mechanics through which this occurs has not been examined. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to investigate if negative cognitions mediated the relationship between both state and trait types of anxiety and a person's experienced level of trauma. Levels of state and trait anxiety (measured with the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), trauma (determined by the Brief Betrayal Trauma Survey), and negative cognitions (measured with the Young Scheme Questionnaire Short-Form 3) were the variables used in a mediation analysis using multiple regression; Sobel z test was used to provide statistical evidence of mediation. 142 mental health outpatient clients provided data for the study. Results indicated negative cognitions had a partial mediating effect on the relationship between trauma and state anxiety. Negative cognitions had a full mediating effect on the relationship between trauma and trait anxiety. Findings help clarify the significant role of negative cognitions in the development of anxiety from trauma, supporting current treatments which target negative cognitions. This is an important contribution to the existing literature and may enhance social change initiatives by guiding mental health practitioners to use the most effective and cost-efficient treatments for anxiety. |
