Jihong Xu1, Ping Chen2. 1. Research Center for Mental Health and Behavior Big Data, National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12 Dahuisi Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100081, China. gracexjh@163.com. 2. Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This research explored the relationship among loneliness, depression and self-concept of rural children in China. METHODS: Seven hundred and twenty-four children (Mage = 9.15 years) from two rural primary schools were selected as respondents to participate in this study. Piers-Harris Children's Self-concept Scale, Asher Loneliness Scale and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale for Children were used. RESULTS: Of the rural children surveyed, 14.50% and 10.22%, respectively, experienced strong loneliness and severe depression, and 28.52% had low self-concept. There was a significant positive relationship of moderate level between loneliness and depression, and significant negative relationships between total self-concept and depression, and between total self-concept and loneliness. Moreover, a partial mediation role of self-concept was found in the relationship between loneliness and depression. CONCLUSION: Children's loneliness was not only directly related to depression, but also was indirectly mediated by self-concept, which demonstrated a partial mediation role in the relationship between loneliness and depression.
OBJECTIVE: This research explored the relationship among loneliness, depression and self-concept of rural children in China. METHODS: Seven hundred and twenty-four children (Mage = 9.15 years) from two rural primary schools were selected as respondents to participate in this study. Piers-Harris Children's Self-concept Scale, Asher Loneliness Scale and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale for Children were used. RESULTS: Of the rural children surveyed, 14.50% and 10.22%, respectively, experienced strong loneliness and severe depression, and 28.52% had low self-concept. There was a significant positive relationship of moderate level between loneliness and depression, and significant negative relationships between total self-concept and depression, and between total self-concept and loneliness. Moreover, a partial mediation role of self-concept was found in the relationship between loneliness and depression. CONCLUSION:Children's loneliness was not only directly related to depression, but also was indirectly mediated by self-concept, which demonstrated a partial mediation role in the relationship between loneliness and depression.