Trait mindfulness buffers depersonalization symptoms among young adults exposed to childhood abuse.

Introduction: Childhood abuse has a significant impact on adulthood mental health. Many children cope with the threat of abuse through avoidant strategies; however, this adaptation may contribute to the development of depersonalization symptoms and dissociative disorders. In contrast, the development of trait mindfulness, the tendency to monitor present-moment experience from an accepting perspective, may buffer depersonalization symptoms. This study tests whether trait mindfulness, particularly acceptance, moderates the association between childhood abuse and depersonalization among young adults with a self-reported history of abuse. Methods: As part of a larger trial, 81 participants (18-29 years, 85% female) reported childhood abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), trait mindfulness subscales, and depersonalization symptoms. Results: Regression models showed an association between childhood abuse and depersonalization symptoms ( Discussion: Trait mindfulness, particularly acceptance, may buffer against the development of depersonalization symptoms in trauma-exposed adults. Understanding this relationship informs theories on traumatic resilience and mindfulness-based therapies.