Need Frustration: A Mediator of Avoidance Coping and Depressive Symptoms During the COVID-19 Pandemic

• In Event: Access to Service and Integrated Care

Abstract

The pandemic uniquely impacted 2020 Grade 12 graduates. Previous research indicates that using avoiding coping strategies during COVID-19 led to increased depression, but little is known regarding underlying factors that explain this relationship. The current project examined 2020 Grade 12 Graduates’ (N = 168) use of avoidance coping mechanisms, psychological need frustration, and depression during COVID-19. Results indicated a mediating role of need frustration on the relationship between avoidance coping and depression (β = .630, CI = .745 to .819), where the direct effect of avoidance coping on depression became significantly weaker (β = .255, t = 4.600, p < .001) when introducing need frustration. Findings illustrate the need for educational and mental health programming for this subgroup.

Authors

• Manshu Chen, University of Toronto - OISE

• Ana Zdravkovic Barber, University of Toronto - OISE

• Abby L. Goldstein, University of Toronto - OISE

• Earl Woodruff, University of Toronto - OISE