Trait Mindfulness as a Buffer: Exploring its Association with Negative Emotional States among University Students
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The present study investigated the predictive role of trait mindfulness in relation to depression, anxiety, and stress among Pakistani young adults. The following hypotheses were formulated: H1: Trait mindfulness will significantly and negatively predict depression among Pakistani young adults. H2: Trait mindfulness will significantly and negatively predict anxiety among Pakistani young adults. H3: Trait mindfulness will significantly and negatively predict stress among Pakistani young adults. A sample of 405 participants (189 males, 216 females; aged 18–30 years, M = 22.39, SD = 2.823) completed an online survey including the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). Reliability and normality assessments confirmed the adequacy of the measures. Linear regression analyses revealed that trait mindfulness significantly and negatively predicted depression (R² = .237, p < .001), anxiety (R² = .210, p < .001), and stress (R² = .201, p < .001). These findings were consistent with the hypotheses formulated and the theoretical perspectives. The study adds value to global evidence in relation to the Pakistani context, highlighting trait mindfulness as a preventive factor against negative emotions and emphasizing the need for culturally adapted mindfulness-based interventions to enhance psychological resilience among young adults.
DOI: 10.67785/pjpp.9.410
Authors: Shazia Jabeen, Dr. Farah Iqbal
Institutions: Jinnah University for Women, University of Karachi
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7225002712