Predicting Psychosomatic Symptoms Based on Childhood Trauma and Sensory Processing Sensitivity: The Mediating Role of Alexithymia in Individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Abstract

The objective of this study was to predict psychosomatic symptoms based on childhood trauma and sensory processing sensitivity through the mediating role of alexithymia in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder. This descriptive–correlational study was conducted using structural equation modeling. The sample consisted of 300 individuals diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder who attended counseling centers in Tehran. Convenience sampling was used. Measurement instruments included the Patient Health Questionnaire, the Toronto Alexithymia Scale, the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, and the Highly Sensitive Person Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS-26 and AMOS-26. Childhood trauma and sensory processing sensitivity both showed significant positive associations with psychosomatic symptoms. Alexithymia partially mediated the relationship between childhood trauma and psychosomatic symptoms as well as the relationship between sensory processing sensitivity and psychosomatic symptoms. Model fit indices supported the adequacy of the proposed conceptual model. The findings indicate that childhood trauma and sensory processing sensitivity contribute to increased psychosomatic symptoms both directly and indirectly through heightened alexithymia. Interventions aimed at improving emotion regulation and enhancing emotional awareness may help reduce psychosomatic manifestations in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder.