The mediating role of ontological well being variable over the explanation of the relationship between early maladaptive schemas and depression: A path analysis study

In the present study, The effect of early maladaptive schema to depression was examined through the mediation of ontological well being variable. The sample of the research consists of totaly individuals whose ages are ranging between 18 and 30 and those individuals are composed of 56 men and 196 women. In order to measure the relationship between early maladaptive schemas and depression through the mediation of ontological well being variable, Young Schema Inventory(YSQ-3), Ontological Well Being Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory and personal information questionnaire were employed. All hypothesis put forth in the research were supported by the findings obtained. According to path analysis, among from 14 early maladaptive schemas, Social Isolation, Approval Seeking, Entitlement, Negativity, Self-Sacrifice and Emotional Deprivation are related to depression through the mediation effect of ontological well being variable. whole ontological well being variables (Activation, Hope, Nothingness, Regret) were related with depression but it was observed that Regret and Nothingness variables were more determinative over depression. The findings, and their implications with suggestions for future research and practice, were discussed according to relevant literature.