Shenakht Journal of Psychology & Psychiatry

Introduction: Psychological hardiness and executive functions are recognized as protective and influential factors in maintaining mental health.
Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the role of executive functions in predicting psychological hardiness.
Method: This study employed a descriptive-correlational (predictive) design. The statistical population comprised all students at the University of Kurdistan during the 2022–2023 academic year. The sample consisted of 280 students, aged between 18 and 40 years, selected through a convenience sampling method. Executive functions were assessed using the Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale, while psychological hardiness was measured using the Kobasa Psychological Hardiness Inventory. Data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis with SPSS version 26.
Results: The results of multiple regression analysis indicated a significant negative relationship between psychological hardiness and the executive function subscales including self-management of time (β = -0.164, p < 0.024), self-motivation (β = -0.171, p < 0.018), and self-regulation of emotion (β = -0.426, p < 0.000). Furthermore, no significant relationship was found between psychological hardiness and the executive function subscales including self-control/inhibition (β = 0.78, p < 0.286) and self-organization/problem-solving (β = -0.096, p < 0.182).
Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the importance of self-management of time, self-motivation, self-regulation of emotion, self-control/inhibition and self-organization/problem-solving in predicting psychological hardiness. The results of this study can be utilized to enhance individuals' mental health and to design psychological treatment protocols aimed at improving and promoting mental well-being.