Relational Violence, Social Support, Self-Esteem, Depression and Anxiety: A Moderated Mediation Model

Abstract

Objectives The current study aimed to explore whether relational violence victimization predicts depression and anxiety through self-esteem and whether this indirect effect is moderated by social support. Methods A sample of 1993 high school students completed self-report measures of relational violence victimization, selfesteem, social support, symptoms of depression and anxiety. We conducted a moderated mediation model analysis in order to detect whether there is an indirect effect from relation violence victimization on depression and anxiety through selfesteem, and this indirect effect is dependent on the moderation of social support. Results Results indicated that relational violence and social support have a direct and interactive effect on self-esteem. Selfesteem mediates the relationships between relational violence, depression, and anxiety. Furthermore, the findings suggest that the indirect effect of relational violence on depression and anxiety through self-esteem may vary depending on the level of social support. Conclusions The current findings highlighted the protective role of social support for adolescents’ well-being.