The Relationship between Self-Esteem and Subjective Well-Being of Retired Single Women in Chinese Cities: The Mediating Role of Coping Styles

Abstract

Objective To investigate the mediating role of coping strategies between self-esteem and subjective well-being among urban retired single women, and to provide evidence and guidance for improving their mental health. Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted among 480 urban retired single women using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, General Well-Being Schedule, and Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire. The results showed that there was no statistically significant difference in self-esteem between different age groups and educational levels; there was no statistically significant difference in coping factors across educational levels, but significant age differences were observed in problem-solving, self-blame, fantasy, and avoidance; subjective well-being was higher among younger retired single women than among older ones, with a significant age difference. Social support was significantly positively correlated with subjective well-being; problem-solving and seeking help were significantly positively correlated with subjective well-being, while self-blame, fantasy, avoidance, and rationalization were significantly negatively correlated with subjective well-being. Self-esteem had a significant direct effect on subjective well-being (β =0.289, P<0.001), and the mediating effect of coping strategies was also significant (β=0.197, β =0.366, P<0.001). Specifically, the mediating effect of mature coping strategies accounted for 29.7% of the total effect, while the mediating effect of immature coping strategies accounted for 18.9% of the total effect.