The role of psychological flexibility components in predicting anxiety and insomnia severity

Abstract

AbstractObjectives Insomnia and anxiety are prevalent disorders that often co-occur in individuals, making it important to study these disorders. Therefore, our aim was to investigate the predictive role of psychological flexibility components in anxiety and insomnia severity among university students. Methods For this study, a descriptive-correlational design was employed, and a sample of Iranian university students was selected to complete the questionnaires. Ultimately, data analysis was conducted for 393 individuals, using statistical methods such as Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis. Results The results showed that there is a relationship between the total score of psychological flexibility and anxiety and insomnia severity, and there is a relationship between psychological flexibility components (except for experiential avoidance) and insomnia severity and anxiety. Additionally, the results indicated that regression models based on psychological flexibility components for prediction of insomnia severity and anxiety are significant. Conclusion Based on the research results, it can be said that there is a relationship between psychological flexibility and anxiety, sleep quality, and the insomnia severity. The strength of this relationship is greater in the defusion than in other ACT components. This is an important point that should be considered by therapists in the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and sleep quality improvement.