Davids, Eugene Lee2024-08-162024-08-162024-09Davids, E.L. Decision-making associated with anxiety and depression among emerging adults. South African Journal of Psychology. 2024; 54(3): 314-330. doi: 10.1177/00812463241265044.0081-2463 (print)2078-8208 (online)10.1177/00812463241265044http://hdl.handle.net/2263/97683Emerging adulthood is synonymous with high levels of stress and uncertainty, often resulting in anxiety and depression, which negatively impact mental health and well-being. Exploring the experiences of anxiety and depression symptomology in decisional situations enhances our understanding of their role in emerging adult mental health and well-being. This study examined whether decision-making styles predict anxiety and depression symptomology among emerging adults in South Africa. The cross-sectional study collected data using a secure, online platform. All data were analysed using R for descriptive and inferential statistics. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was performed using R seminr package. The sample consisted of 1411 emerging adults with a mean age of 21.81 years, who engaged in both adaptive and maladaptive decision-making. Among the participants, 74.2% were at risk of a clinical diagnosis for an anxiety disorder, and 37.3% for depression/mood disorder. Structural equation modelling indicated that adaptive decision-making led to a reduction in anxiety and depression symptomology, while maladaptive decision-making had the opposite effect. The findings highlight implications for emerging adult mental health, particularly how understanding the connections with decision-making can enhance intervention outcomes and improve mental health and mental health literacy among emerging adults in South Africa.en© The Author(s) 2024.Decision makingAnxietyDepressionEmerging adultsSDG-03: Good health and well-beingMental healthPostprint Article