The mediation role of perceived social support in the relationship between interpersonal competence and self-esteem in married individuals

Abstract

BACKGROUND The main purpose of this research is to examine the mediation role of perceived social support in the relationship between interpersonal competence and self-esteem in married individuals. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE The study group of the research consisted of a total of 237 married individuals, 117 females and 120 males aged from 18 to 65. The mean age of participants in the study was 39.34 (SD = 9.48). In order to gather data Interpersonal Competence Scale, Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale were used as measures. RESULTS According to the results of this study, interpersonal competence predicts perceived social support and self-esteem, and perceived social support predicts self-esteem. Perceived social support, which is the main focus of the research, plays a partial mediation role in the relationship between interpersonal competence and self-esteem. CONCLUSIONS We think that when married individuals increase their interpersonal competencies they feel that they are able to communicate more effectively. A married individual who is able to build close relationships with family and friends, and who perceives support, will feel that they are not alone so they consider themselves as a person of worth and their self-esteem will increase.