Abstract

This study aims to examine the relationship between abuse experiences, depression and attachment styles. The data for this study was collected from 251 students (123 females and 128 males) who attend Mersin University. As a part of the data collection, students completed the Experiences in Affiliation Inventory, Childhood Trauma Scale and Brief Symptom Inventory. Pearson product-moment correlation and multiple regression analyses were used to analyze the data. According to the analyses, a positive relationship was found between attachment styles, trauma and depression. According to the results of the regression analysis, avoidant attachment style and physical trauma significantly predict depression level. On the other hand, it was found that anxious attachment and emotional and sexual trauma do not contribute to depression levels among university students.

Key words: Attachment styles, abuse, depression.