The interrelations of perceptions of family adaptability and cohesion, self-esteem and anxiety/depression in late adolescence

This study examined several models depicting the role of adolescent ratings of their self-esteem on the relationships of their perceptions of linear and curvilinear family cohesion and adaptability with their anxiety/depression. A total of 385 participants, aged from 18 to 20 years, completed the FACES-III, and self-rating questionnaires covering self-esteem and anxiety/depression. Results showed that self-esteem had additive and some mediating effects on the relations between the linear family measures and anxiety/depression. Self-esteem also moderated the relation between linear cohesion and anxiety/depression. The theoretical and treatment implications of these findings are discussed.