The longitudinal relation between positive self-defining memories, self-esteem and depressive symptoms among the general population

Objective: Previous research suggested that there is a relationship between positive self-defining memories, self-esteem and depressive symptoms. This research aims to investigate the relationship between those variables. Method: In 2012, a longitudinal questionnaire study was carried out with three measurements of self-defining memories and one measurement of self-esteem and depressive symptoms among 1193 Dutch participants (51,6 % female, mean age: 59 years). The relationship between these variables were analyzed with a mediation analyses. Results: Positive self-defining memories over time were related to self-esteem. Positive self-defining memories over time were related to depressive symptoms. Self-esteem was related to depressive symptoms and the relationship of positive self-defining memories with depressive symptoms was partially mediated by self-esteem. Conclusion: The results indicate that positive self-defining memories are related to self-esteem which in turn is related to depressive symptoms. Self-esteem accounts for some, but not all, of the relationship between positive self-defining memories and depressive symptoms. The findings of this research support models and theories about the relationship between self-defining memories, self-esteem and depressive symptoms. However, further research is needed in order to make a causal statement about the relationship between positive self-defining memories, self-esteem and depressive symptoms. The current results support the theory of the upward spiral of depressive symptoms. Moreover, positive self-defining memories could be used as an approach to prevent a depressive episode.