This study examined the sequential double mediation effect of rejection sensitivity and anger rumination in the relationship between gender microaggression and depression among women in early adulthood. An online survey was conducted with 247 women in early adulthood who experienced gender microaggression, and the data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 and Process MACRO. The main results are as follows. First, statistically significant correlations were found between gender microaggression, rejection sensitivity, anger rumination, and depression among women in early adulthood. Second, rejection sensitivity showed a significant partial mediation effect in the relationship between gender microaggression and depression. Third, anger rumination also showed a significant partial mediation effect in this relationship. Fourth, the sequential double mediation effect of rejection sensitivity and anger rumination was significant in the relationship between gender microaggression and depression. The results of this study demonstrate the impact of gender microaggressions on depression among women in early adulthood and clarify the roles of rejection sensitivity and anger rumination. By highlighting the severity of gender microaggressions and the psychological distress they cause, this study contributes to raising social awareness. These findings provide a foundation for developing prevention and intervention strategies. Lastly, the limitations of this study and suggestions for future research were discussed.
