BELIEFS, DEFENSE STYLES, FRIENDSHIP QUALITY AND COMPARTMENTALIZATION-DETACHMENT AMONG YOUNG ADULTS.

Abstract

This study examined the associations between Beliefs, Defense Styles, Friendship Quality and Compartmentalization-detachment among young adults. Supported by frameworks such as cognitive-behavioural and psychodynamic theories, the study aimed to investigate how beliefs (Rational and Irrational beliefs) , defense styles(mature and neurotic styles), friendship quality contribute to compartmentalization-detachment. A correlational research design was used with a sample size of 529 (N=529 ) young adults recruited through convenience sampling. The questionnaire included a consent form, demographic sheet, Attitudes and Beliefs Scale-2- Short Form (ABS-2-SF), Defense Styles Questionnaire-40 (DSQ-40), McGill‟s Friendship Questionnaire, and the Detachment and compartmentalization inventory (DCI). Descriptive statistics, Pearson‟s correlation, Regression, t-test and Reliability analysis were run on the collected data using SPSS-27 . The results revealed that neurotic defense styles, friendship quality, and irrational beliefs were positively associated with compartmentalization-detachment, while mature defense styles, and rational beliefs were negatively associated with compartmentalization-detachment. The findings provided insight into the psychological mechanisms underlying compartmentalization-detachment among young adults.