The serial mediator roles of self-esteem and self-compassion in the relationship between anxious attachment and psychological dating violence victimization in emerging adult women

Emerging adulthood refers to the transitional life stage that falls between adolescence and adulthood, encompassing individuals aged 18 to 30. This period is characterized by identity development across three fundamental domains: love, work, and worldview. During this phase, romantic relationships play a crucial role, with intimacy and the intention to sustain the relationship into the future taking precedence. While romantic relationships fulfill individuals' needs for love, belonging, and security, they can also involve violence and harmful dynamics. One form of dating violence is psychological dating violence, which includes verbal and behavioral strategies aimed at degrading, controlling, and exerting dominance over a partner. Research suggests that an individual's early attachment style, formed through interactions with primary caregivers, continues to shape their attachment patterns in adulthood, influencing their romantic relationships. Individuals with anxious attachment styles are more likely to select insecure partners and persist in relationships where they experience violence and emotional harm. Self-esteem and self-compassion are psychological factors that can either increase or decrease the likelihood of women experiencing psychological dating violence. Given this, the present study aims to examine the serial mediating role of self-esteem and self-compassion in the relationship between anxious attachment and exposure to psychological dating violence among emerging adult women. The study sample consists of 306 heterosexual women aged 18–30 who are either currently in a romantic relationship or have been in one previously (Mage = 24.00; SDage = 3.48; Minage = 18; Maxage = 30). The study utilized the Demographic Information Form, Experiences in Close Relationships Scale – Short Form, Multidimensional Emotional Abuse Scale, Self-Compassion Scale, and Women's Self-Esteem Scale. To test the main hypotheses, the Serial Multiple Mediation Model (Model 6) of Hayes' PROCESS macro was employed. The findings indicate that even among women with an anxious attachment style, higher levels of self-esteem and self-compassion reduce the likelihood of experiencing psychological dating violence. These results were discussed within the scope of the academic literature, and recommendations were provided for researchers and mental health professionals regarding future research and practical applications.