The Relationship Between Attachment and Depression: The Mediational Role of Shame, SelfEsteem, and Social Support

According to the American College Health Association 31.3% of college students reported feeling depressed (2013). Early parental attachment forms an internal working model that is used as reference for later relationships and experiences (Zaman & Fivush, 2013). Past research suggests that parental attachment was predictive of depression (Leondari & Klosseoglou, 2002) and self-esteem (Kenny & Sirin, 2006). Research has found an association between parental bonding (a related construct of attachment) and shame (Lutwak & Ferrari, 1997). Perceived social support with friends and family was associated with parental attachment perceptions (Mullis et al. 1999). Depression has been associated with self-esteem (Tarlow & Haaga, 1996) and shame (Andrews, Qian, & Valentine, 2002). Parental support was predictive of depression and the onset of major depression (Stice, Ragan, & Randall, 2004). Research is necessary to further understand the negative outcomes of insecure parental attachments as it relates to depression. Purpose of the study is to simultaneously examine three potential mediators (shame, social support, and self-esteem) of the attachment and depression relationship.