Identification and Explanation of Mechanisms Regulating Closeness and Distance from Affective Objects in Individuals with Depression: A Mixed-Methods Study with Emphasis on Attachment, Fear of Intimacy, and Rejection Sensitivity

Sara  Mortazavi; Zahra Fallahzade; Sogand  Asghari; Mohammadjavad   Shahmiri

Authors

Sara Mortazavi Department of Psychology, Ke.C., Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0009-0002-8310-996X
Zahra Fallahzade Department of Psychology, Ka.C., Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran Corresponding Author https://orcid.org/0009-0005-9549-7586
Sogand Asghari Department of Psychology, Qu.C., Islamic Azad University, Quchan, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0009-0002-2616-2465
Mohammadjavad Shahmiri Department of Psychology, ST.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. Author https://orcid.org/0009-0004-2587-7092

Keywords:

Depression, Attachment, Fear of Intimacy, Rejection Sensitivity, Affective Objects, Closeness–Distance Regulation, Mixed Methods

Abstract

This study aimed to identify and explain the mechanisms regulating closeness to and distance from affective objects among individuals with depression, with particular emphasis on attachment, fear of intimacy, and rejection sensitivity. An exploratory sequential mixed-methods design was conducted in Tehran, Iran. In the qualitative phase, 22 adults with depression were selected purposively and interviewed using in-depth semi-structured interviews until theoretical saturation was achieved. Qualitative data were analyzed through constant comparative coding. In the quantitative phase, 420 adults with depression completed the Beck Depression Inventory-II, Experiences in Close Relationships-Revised questionnaire, Fear of Intimacy Scale, Adult Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire, and the researcher-developed Closeness–Distance Regulation Mechanisms Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, Pearson correlations, and structural equation modeling with bootstrap estimation. Six mechanisms were identified: reassurance-seeking proximity, hypervigilant monitoring, ambivalent approach–withdrawal, protective emotional distancing, concealment of vulnerability, and post-rejection deactivation. The six-factor measurement model showed satisfactory fit, χ²/df = 2.11, RMSEA = .052, SRMR = .046, CFI = .951, and TLI = .945. Attachment anxiety strongly predicted rejection sensitivity (β = .61, p < .001), while attachment avoidance strongly predicted fear of intimacy (β = .63, p < .001). Rejection sensitivity predicted reassurance-seeking proximity (β = .46, p < .001) and hypervigilant monitoring (β = .55, p < .001), whereas fear of intimacy predicted protective emotional distancing (β = .48, p < .001) and concealment of vulnerability (β = .51, p < .001). Significant indirect effects supported the mediating roles of rejection sensitivity and fear of intimacy. Closeness–distance regulation in depression appears to operate through two interconnected pathways, with attachment anxiety and rejection sensitivity driving proximity hyperactivation and attachment avoidance and fear of intimacy driving defensive distancing.

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