Social support and depression among Chinese adolescents: The mediating roles of self-esteem and self-efficacy

Objectives: This study investigated the effect of various sources of social support (i.e., parental support, teacher support, and peer support) on the level of depression, and the mediating effect of self-esteem and self-efficacy in the relationship between various sources of social support and the level of depression among Chinese adolescents. It also attempted to explore whether or not the relationships among social support, self-esteem, self efficacy and depression would differ between students in upper primary school (Grades 4 to 6) and those in lower secondary school (Grades 7 to 9). Method: The study employed a cross-sectional survey design. Using a three-stage cluster sampling method, 1507 students from primary schools (Grades 4 to 6) and secondary schools (Grades 7 to 9) in Hong Kong were recruited and given a structured questionnaire. Results: The results of a structural equation analysis indicated that both parental and peer support are directly and indirectly related to the level of depression. The indirect effect of social support on depression is via the mediating effect of self-esteem. However, self-efficacy does not mediate the relationship between social support and depression. Similar findings were found for both 4th to 6th graders in primary schools and 7th to 9th graders in secondary schools. Conclusion: The findings suggest that enhancing self-esteem should be emphasized in depression prevention/intervention for Chinese adolescents.