Parallel Mediators between Resilience, Mindfulness and Social Connectedness: Entrapment and Intolerance of Uncertainty

Background In response to challenging life circumstances, individuals may exhibit a range of reactions, from feeling trapped and intolerant of uncertainty to experiencing negative psychological outcomes or demonstrating resilience. Those who lack mindfulness and social connectedness often struggle more significantly with these challenges. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether intolerance of uncertainty and feelings of entrapment mediate the relationship between mindfulness, social connectedness, and psychological resilience. This is the first study to explore these specific relationships. Methods The study involved 351 participants, consisting of 54 males and 297 females, who voluntarily provided data. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was utilized to perform mediation analysis and examine the complex relationships between the variables. Results The findings revealed that both intolerance of uncertainty and feelings of entrapment serve as parallel mediators in the relationship between mindfulness, social connectedness, and psychological resilience. Specifically, mindfulness and social connectedness were found to negatively predict intolerance of uncertainty and feelings of entrapment. In turn, higher levels of intolerance of uncertainty and entrapment were associated with lower levels of psychological resilience. These results suggest that individuals who are more mindful and socially connected tend to exhibit greater resilience by being less susceptible to uncertainty and feelings of entrapment. Conclusions This study highlights the critical roles of mindfulness and social connectedness in fostering psychological resilience, particularly by reducing intolerance of uncertainty and feelings of entrapment. These findings have important implications for developing interventions aimed at enhancing resilience in individuals facing challenging life circumstances. By promoting mindfulness and strengthening social connections, it may be possible to mitigate the negative psychological effects of uncertainty and entrapment, thereby enhancing overall resilience.