Self-Esteem Variability and Vulnerability to Depression: Understanding the Role of Interpersonal Information-Seeking Processes

• Other Authors: Merrill, Katherine A. (authoraut)
• Format: Others
• Language: English; English
• Published: Florida State University
• Subjects: Psychology
• Online Access: http://purl.flvc.org/fsu/fd/FSU_migr_etd-2479

Variability and level of self-esteem have been associated with risk for depression, but the mechanisms behind this association have not been elaborated. The current study hypothesized that variable self-esteem would be associated with negative interpersonal feedback-seeking, and that this association would mediate the relationship between variable self-esteem and depression. One-hundred thirty undergraduates completed measures of variability of self-esteem, negative feedback seeking, excessive reassurance seeking, and depression at baseline and 3 weeks later. Contrary to predictions, a mediational model was not supported; rather, results indicated complex patterns of interactions. Consistent with Kernis's (1993) theory of unstable self-esteem, level of self-esteem moderated the associations between variability of self-esteem, interpersonal feedback seeking, and depression. In general, variable, high self-esteem participants were less likely, and variable, low self-esteem participants were more likely, to seek reassurance. Variable, high self-esteem participants were at risk for depression following few negative life events, while stable, high self-esteem participants were most at risk for depression following many negative life events. Overall, results emphasize the importance of considering the role of life events, variability, and level of self-esteem in examining depression-related processes. === A Thesis Submitted to the Department of Psychology in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Science. === Fall Semester, 2006. === August 17, 2006. === Reassurance-Seeking, Self-Esteem, Depression, Feedback Seeking === Includes bibliographical references. === Thomas E. Joiner, Jr., Professor Directing Thesis; Janet Kistner, Committee Member; Ashby Plant, Committee Member.