Anxiety sensitivity and negative affect: Transdiagnostic model for anxious and depressive symptoms

Abstract

The aim of the study was to identify the predictive role of anxiety sensitivity (SA) and negative affect (AN) on anxiety and depression, a relationship that has not been analyzed in detail. A multivariate correlational study was carried out with structural equations. The sample included 506 participants (M = 31.96, SD = 11.26 years). Significant correlations were reported between the transdiagnostic variables and the symptoms, with wide differences once the AN was controlled. The regression coefficients showed a high predictive capacity of SA and AN, especially with anxiety. In a structural model, a favorable adjustment without evidence of AN mediation in the SA and symptoms. The possibilities of AN and SA are discussed as second-order variables that suggest a higher order model.