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How Does Self-Concept Differentiation Work in Chinese Retirees: A Moderated Mediation Analysis
Changzheng Zhu1,2, Min Zhu3, Xiangping Gao1
1Department of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China.
Frontiers in Psychology
|March 8, 2021
Summary
Self-concept differentiation (SCD) can impact psychological adjustment through self-consistency and congruence (SCC). This mediation is stronger in older adults, suggesting an integrated self benefits elderly well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Gerontology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Self-concept differentiation (SCD) is linked to psychological adjustment, but underlying mechanisms are unclear.
- Understanding how SCD influences well-being, depression, and anxiety is crucial for psychological health.
- The role of self-consistency and congruence (SCC) and age as moderators warrants investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the mediating role of SCC in the relationship between SCD and psychological adjustment.
- To investigate the moderating effect of age on the SCD-SCC association.
- To elucidate age-specific pathways linking self-concept to psychological outcomes in retirees.
Main Methods:
- A moderated mediation model was employed.
- 158 Chinese retirees completed validated measures of SCD, SCC, psychological well-being, depression, and anxiety.
- Statistical analyses were conducted to test the proposed mediation and moderation effects.
Main Results:
- SCC partially mediated the association between SCD and psychological adjustment indices (well-being, depression, anxiety).
- Age significantly moderated the mediation effect of SCC, with the effect being significant for middle-aged and older retirees, but not younger ones.
- A less differentiated, more integrated self-concept was associated with better psychological adjustment in older adults.
Conclusions:
- Self-consistency and congruence (SCC) partially explain how self-concept differentiation (SCD) affects psychological adjustment.
- Age influences the internal mechanisms linking SCD to psychological adaptation, with older adults benefiting more from an integrated self.
- Promoting a cohesive self-concept may be a valuable strategy for enhancing psychological well-being and resilience in the elderly.
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