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Perceived Autobiographical Coherence Predicts Depressive Symptoms Over Time Through Positive Self-Concept
David John Hallford1, Jorge Javier Ricarte2, Dirk Hermans3
1School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia.
Frontiers in Psychology
|April 19, 2021
Summary
A coherent life story, reflecting how events shaped your sense of self, helps reduce depressive symptoms over time. This effect is mediated by enhanced self-esteem and self-efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Well-being Research
Background:
- Autobiographical memory coherence is linked to psychological well-being.
- Previous research highlights the importance of memory coherence.
- Understanding the mechanisms linking coherence and well-being is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if autobiographical memory coherence predicts future depressive symptoms in adults.
- To identify potential mediators, such as self-esteem, self-efficacy, meaning in life, and optimism.
- To explore the role of perceived causal coherence in the development of depressive symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study with 160 adult participants.
- Data collected at three time-points, one week apart.
- Surveys measured life story coherence, autobiographical memory coherence, psychological resources, and depressive symptoms.
Main Results:
- Perceived causal coherence uniquely predicted reduced depressive symptoms over time.
- This association was mediated by positive self-concept, specifically self-esteem and self-efficacy.
- Other psychological resources (meaning in life, optimism) did not mediate the relationship.
Conclusions:
- The perception of life events and their impact on self-concept is vital for mitigating depressive symptoms.
- Enhanced self-concept, through self-esteem and self-efficacy, is a key pathway linking memory coherence to reduced depression.
- Future research should consider cultural factors and longer time intervals.
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