Content area
This study aims to explore the effects of secure base script knowledge, a cognitive script representative of one’s internal working models of relationships, and reflective functioning, or mentalization, on rejection sensitivity, in a sample of 57 adults. The Attachment Script Assessment measured secure base script knowledge, the ability to recall and access a secure base script, and the reflective functioning coding procedure used with Adult Attachment Interviews assessed reflective functioning, the ability to reflect on the mental states of self and others. The Adult Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire measured rejection sensitivity. The data were analyzed using multiple regression analyses. Results of the study indicated that secure base script knowledge did not predict rejection sensitivity or reflective functioning in adults. Reflective functioning was the only significant predictor of rejection sensitivity, with the additional finding that one’s felt economic security and level of education predicted rejection sensitivity. In other words, those with the awareness of the mental states of oneself and others were less likely to be sensitive to rejection. Recommendations for future research are included in the discussion.