Mindfulness as a Mediator in the Relationship Between Separation-Individuation and Adult Attachment Among Middle-Aged Women

Objectives: This study aimed to examine the mediating effect of mindfulness on the relationship between separation-individuation and adult attachment among middle-aged women. Methods: A self-report survey was conducted with 358 middle-aged women aged 40 to 64 residing in the Busan and Gyeongnam regions of South Korea. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0, employing Pearson’s correlation and hierarchical regression analysis. Results: First, participants showed higher levels of individuation than separation-individuation, along with higher levels of avoidant attachment as compared to anxious attachment. Second, significant correlations were found among separation-individuation, adult attachment, and mindfulness. Third, separation-individuation had both a direct effect on adult attachment and an indirect effect through mindfulness on adult attachment. Mindfulness was found to partially mediate this relationship. Conclusion: These findings suggest that higher levels of separation-individuation in middle-aged women are associated with enhanced mindfulness, which in turn may contribute to the formation of stable attachment with spouses. This study highlights the potential of mindfulness as a psychological resource to support the emotional adjustment of middle-aged women.