Life Orientation and Depression among Undergraduate Students: The Moderating Role of Self Esteem

Authors: Odo VO , Ike OO* , Adubi P and Chikelu LI

DOI: 10.23880/pprij-16000346

Volume 8, Issue 3

Abstract

Proper life orientation and self-esteem are sine-qua-non in enhancing students’ outcomes and distinct implications for students susceptible to risk factors of depression due to its influence on wellbeing. However, there is a paucity of research on the role of life orientation and self-esteem on depression among undergraduate students in sub-Saharan Africa. The present study examined the moderating role of self-esteem on the association between life orientation (optimism vs pessimism) and depression in a sample of Nigerian undergraduate students (n = 540; males 250 (46.3%), females 290 (53.7%), mean age = 20.71, SD =2.97). The students completed measures of the Self-rating depression scale (SDS), Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (RSES) and Life Orientation Test-Revised scale. Regression analysis showed that optimism was negatively related to depression, while pessimism was positively related to depression. Self-esteem is negatively correlated with depression. Selfesteem moderated the relationship between optimism and depression but did not on pessimism and depression. The findings suggested that proper life orientation (optimism) and good self-esteem are sine-qua-non in reducing depression among individuals, which suggests the need for the development and design of intervention strategies as well as support services for people susceptible to a risk factor of depression. This is pertinent to aid such depressed individuals in maintaining optimal wellbeing.

Keywords: Self-Esteem; Life Orientation; Depression; Undergraduate Students

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