The mediating role of experiential avoidance in the relationship between depression, anxiety, stres and smartphone addiction

The aim of this study is to examine the mediating role of experiential avoidance in the relationship between depression, anxiety, stress and smartphone addiction. The sample of the study comprised 577 university students aged between 18-32, 451 female (78.2%) and 177 male (21.8%). Smartphone Addiction Scale Short Form, Multidimensional Experiential Avoidance Scale and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale were employed in the study. Pearson correlation analysis, independent sample t-test and Parallel Multiple Mediator Variable analysis were used in the analysis of the data. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that the anxiety, stress and behavioral avoidance levels of the female participants were significantly higher than the males. According to the results of the correlation analysis, it was determined that there are positive and significant relationships between depression, anxiety, stress, experiential avoidance strategies and smartphone addiction. As a result of mediation analysis, it was determined that experiential avoidance strategies had a mediating effect in the relationship between depression, anxiety, stress and smartphone addiction. The findings within the scope of the study were discussed in the light of the relevant literature and suggestions were presented.