Loneliness and Psychological Distress Among Young Adults in Tehran: The Mediating Roles of Object Relations and Attachment Styles

Abstract

Objective: Previous literature has consistently identified a relationship between loneliness and psychological distress. However, it is crucial to explore the underlying psychological mechanisms that contribute to these problems. In this context, the present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of object relations and attachment styles in the relationship between loneliness and psychological distress among young adults residing in Tehran. Methods and Materials: This cross-sectional study, employing structural equation modeling (SEM), was conducted on a sample of 510 participants (aged 18–40 years) selected through convenience sampling in 2024–2025. The instruments used included the Loneliness Scale, Bell Object Relations Inventory, Attachment Styles Questionnaire, and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, structural equation modeling, and SPSS and AMOS software (version 23). Findings: The findings indicated that direct paths from loneliness (T = 12.93, β = 0.59, 95% CI [0.49, 0.69]), object relations (T = 10.38, β = 0.57, 95% CI [0.47, 0.67]), secure attachment (T = –6.33, β = –0.33, 95% CI [–0.44, –0.22]), and insecure attachment (T = 8.75, β = 0.45, 95% CI [0.34, 0.56]) to psychological distress were all statistically significant. The final structural model accounted for 49% of the variance in psychological distress (R² = 0.49), indicating a substantial but not inflated level of explanatory power. Bootstrapped analyses confirmed significant indirect effects of loneliness through object relations (B = 0.42, p < 0.001), secure attachment (B = –0.45, p < 0.001), and insecure attachment (B = 0.52, p < 0.001).  Conclusion: Interventions focusing on object relations and attachment style may reduce psychological distress in this cultural context.