The Impact of Social Support on Self-Esteem and Depression of Adolescents in Institutions

This research study examined the relationships among perceived social support, self-esteem, and depression. The study examined whether self-esteem mediates the relationship between social support and depression. This research study used a convenience sampling method, and the sample of this study was drawn from 7 child welfare facilities in Gyeonggi-Do. A total 240 surveys were completed. The research study shows that there were strong, significant relationship between most of the variables. There was a positive relationship between social support and self-esteem. Also, social support was negatively associated with depression. This research study also shows that self-esteem mediated the relationships between perceived social support and depression. Findings suggest that increased levels of social support were associated with increased self-esteem, which in turn decreased depression. Implications of the findings are discussed.