Psychological inflexibility and resilience in anxiety: insights from machine-learning and robust mediation-based models - Summary - MDSpire

Psychological inflexibility and resilience in anxiety: insights from machine-learning and robust mediation-based models

  • By

  • Ana Ferreira Mostardinha

  • Daniela Sousa

  • Hugo Senra

  • Marco Simões

  • Ana Pina Rodrigues

  • Paula Vagos

  • Miguel Castelo-Branco

  • May 18, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To investigate the role of psychological inflexibility (PI) on anxiety-related symptoms and assess the mediating role of resilience, while testing the moderating effects of sex and psychiatric history, highlighting the significance of these relationships for mental health interventions.

Key Findings:
  • PI and resilience dimensions (perception of self and planned future) were the strongest predictors of anxiety-related symptoms, with specific statistical values indicating their predictive strength.
  • PI had a positive direct association with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), anxiety, and stress.
  • Significant indirect associations were found between PI and stress/anxiety through resilience dimensions.
Interpretation:

The findings underscore the interconnectedness of PI and resilience in influencing mental health outcomes, suggesting that interventions targeting both could improve coping strategies for anxiety, potentially through structured therapeutic approaches.

Limitations:
  • The study relied on self-reported measures, which may introduce bias.
  • The sample was predominantly female, which may limit generalizability and affect the applicability of findings across genders.
Conclusion:

Psychological interventions focusing on reducing PI while enhancing resilience may be beneficial for individuals experiencing anxiety-related symptoms, emphasizing the need for tailored therapeutic strategies.

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