Investigating the Relationship Between Distorted Thoughts and Perceived Stress with the Mediating Role of Rumination Among Unemployed Youth
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Objective: This study aims to explore how distorted thoughts and perceived stress are correlated, with rumination playing a mediating role, in unemployed youth.
Methods and Materials: The study employed a descriptive-correlational design utilizing a structural model. The statistical population for the study consisted of unemployed and jobless young individuals in Tehran from July to October 2023. A sample of 158 participants was selected using a multi-stage cluster sampling approach. Research instruments utilized included the Ruminative Response Scale (RRS), Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ), and Cognitive Distortions Questionnaire (CD-Quest). Descriptive statistics were conducted using SPSS version 27 software, while data analysis and path coefficient calculations were performed using JASP version 0.18.1 software. A p-value of 0.05 was set for the study.
Findings: According to the findings, Rumination was found to have a significant and positive impact on Perceived Stress (β= 0.222, p< 0.001). Similarly, Distorted thoughts were found to directly contribute to an increase in Perceived Stress (β= 0.171, p< 0.001). Additionally, Distorted thoughts were found to have a direct positive impact on Rumination (β= 0.126, p< 0.001). Furthermore, Distorted thoughts were also found to indirectly influence Perceived Stress through Rumination (β= 0.028, p< 0.001).
Conclusion: The research findings indicated that both rumination and distorted thoughts can lead to an increase in perceived stress. Additionally, distorted thoughts can contribute to increased rumination, which in turn exacerbates perceived stress. These results are particularly valuable for professionals in the fields of psychology and counseling, as well as those assisting unemployed youth in enhancing their mental and social well-being.
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