Self-esteem and depression among Chinese adults: A moderated mediation model of relationship satisfaction and positive affect

Based on the integration of the vulnerability model of low self-esteem and depression and the marital discord model of depression, we examined whether relationship satisfaction mediated the relation between self-esteem and depression and positive affect moderated the relation between self-esteem and relationship satisfaction as well as relationship satisfaction and depression. This model was examined with 429 Chinese adults. Participants filled out questionnaires regarding self-esteem, depression, relationship satisfaction, and positive affect. Self-esteem was significantly related to depression. Relationship satisfaction partially mediated this relation. The indirect association between self-esteem and depression was moderated by positive affect. Specifically, the paths from self-esteem to relationship satisfaction and relationship satisfaction to depression were strengthened in the context of higher positive affect. Results highlight that interventions aimed at improving positive affect may protect low self-esteem adults from the risk of depression.