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

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, self-esteem, 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 self-esteem, 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. Self-esteem 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.