The mediating role of resilience on the association between family satisfaction and lower levels of depression and anxiety among Chinese adolescents.

Abstract

PurposeThis study aimed to explore the association between family satisfaction, resilience, and anxiety and depression among adolescents, and the mediating role of resilience in these relationships.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among grade 8 to 9 students from 4 secondary schools in Hong Kong. A total of 1,146 participants completed the survey.ResultsRespectively 45.8% and 58.0% of students scored above the cut-off for mild anxiety and mild depression. Results from linear regression analyses showed that family satisfaction was positively associated with resilience, and both family satisfaction and resilience were and negatively associated with anxiety and depression. The mediating effects of resilience on the relationship between family satisfaction and anxiety/ depression (26.3% and 31.1% effects accounted for, respectively) were significant.ConclusionsBoth family satisfaction and resilience have important influence on adolescent mental health. Interventions that seek to promote positive family relationships and resilience of adolescents may be effective in preventing and reducing anxiety and depression symptoms among adolescents.