How involuntary subordination and social support influence the association between self-esteem and depression: a moderated mediation model

Qiuming Shen,Meili Shang,Yue Shi,Shuxian Zhang,Ruijie Chang,Huwen Wang,Yong Cai,Lhakpa Tsamlag,Zihe Peng,Ying Wang

doi:10.1186/s12888-019-2330-1

Qiuming Shen, Meili Shang + Show 8 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-019-2330-1

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Abstract

BackgroundIn China, young migrants are at elevated risk of mental health problems, such as depression. The influence of self-esteem on depression is well acknowledged. We examined correlates of depression and their mediating and moderating role in the association between self-esteem and depression to promote a better understanding of depression prevention among young migrants.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study among young Chinese migrants. A moderated mediation model was used to test the combined effect of involuntary subordination and social support on the association between self-esteem and depression. The Johnson–Neyman method was used to identify the range of scores for which social support acted as a moderator.ResultsA total of 572 participants completed questionnaires. The median depression score was 19 (interquartile range: 14). Self-esteem had a negative effect on involuntary subordination (β = − 2.1440, p < 0.001). Involuntary subordination (β = 0.2406, p < 0.001), self-esteem (β = − 0.3870, p < 0.01), and social support (β = − 0.1221, p < 0.01) all had significant effects on depression. The effect of involuntary subordination on depression was moderated by social support (β = − 0.0041, p < 0.05), and the effect decreased as social support scores increased.ConclusionsOur results indicated a mediating role of involuntary subordination and a moderating role of social support in the association between self-esteem and depression among young Chinese migrants. Future intervention strategies should focus on these factors to reduce depressive symptoms.

Highlights

In China, young migrants are at elevated risk of mental health problems, such as depression
Most were male (61.89%); 64.34% had a highest education level of senior high school; 82.17% were unmarried; most of the sample had a monthly income of 3200–4800 Chinese yuan (64.51%); and 61.01% had been working in Shanghai for less than 1 year
There were no significant differences in depression scores by participant characteristics

Summary

Introduction

In China, young migrants are at elevated risk of mental health problems, such as depression. A study of Mexican migrants in the United States showed that the increased risk of depression was restricted to individuals aged 18–25 years [8]. All these findings highlight the importance of investigation into mental health problems, depression, among young migrants, a high-risk group. Previous studies have identified several factors, including psychosocial factors, associated with an elevated risk of depression in young migrants. The relatively low socioeconomic status and unsuccessful acculturation process of migrants in a new environment may influence this pathway and thereby increase the risk of depression [15, 16]

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