Abstract

This study aims to investigate the mediating effect of emotion dysregulation in the relationship between childhood trauma and depression, as well as the moderated mediating effect of interoceptive awareness within this mediation model. To assess each variable, we utilized the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form, the Difficulties in Emotional Regulation Scale, the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale, and the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness. An online self-report questionnaire was administered to women in their 20s living in Seoul, resulting in a sample of 313 participants. The findings confirmed a partial mediating effect of emotion dysregulation in the relationship between childhood trauma and depression. Furthermore, interoceptive awareness was found to moderate this mediation process, albeit in a direction contrary to our original hypothesis. These results underscore the potential for a more nuanced understanding of the connection between trauma and depression. The study also discusses its implications and limitations.