The Mediating Role of Negative Core Beliefs in Parental Acceptance Rejection and Cognitive Distortion among Young Adults

Abstract

Theoretically, parental acceptance-rejection is linked to negative
core beliefs and cognitive distortion. However, this association requires
further empirical support. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the
mediating effects of negative core beliefs between parental acceptancerejection
and the formation of cognitive distortions among a Pakistani
normative sample of young adults between the age range of 18 to 25 years.
A cross-sectional correlation research design was employed, and a sample of
325 participants was recruited using a convenient sampling technique. The
following standardized measures were used to collect data the Parental
Acceptance-Rejection Scale (PARQ), Negative Core Belief Inventory (NCBI),
and Cognitive Distortion Scale (CDS). The results revealed a significant
positive association between parental acceptance-rejection, negative core
beliefs, and cognitive distortions. Furthermore, negative core beliefs and
cognitive distortion including mind reading and should statements, were
found to be significant predictors of parental acceptance-rejection.
Mediation modeling using Hayes' PROCESS macro unveiled that the overall
negative core belief played a significant partial mediating role in the
relationship between parental acceptance-rejection and specific cognitive
distortions. However, the mother's acceptance-rejection was found to be an
important factor associated with negative core beliefs and cognitive
distortions, including mind reading and should statements.
In contrast, the father's acceptance and rejection did not have a significant
impact on cognitive distortions. Nevertheless, negative core belief fully
mediated the association between paternal acceptance-rejection and
cognitive distortions of mind reading and should statements. The study
concluded that negative core beliefs about the self serve as a pivotal mediator
between parental acceptance-rejection and cognitive distortions. While
maternal rejection played a vital role in the formation of negative core beliefs
and cognitive distortions.