College Student Chaotically-Disengaged Family Functioning, Depression, and Anxiety: The Indirect Effects of Positive Family Communication and Self-Compassion

Depression and anxiety are the most prominent mental health concerns among college campuses. Thus, it is important to examine factors linked with rising depression and anxiety symptoms. The purpose of this study is to examine the interrelationship between college student family functioning (N = 500), family communication, self-compassion, and anxiety and depression levels, and whether gender moderates these relationships. Specifically, we tested whether positive communication and self-compassion were significant indirect effects in the relationship between levels of chaotically-disengaged family functioning and the outcome variables of anxiety and depression symptomology. Findings reveal that positive communication and self-compassion were significant indirect effects in the relationship between chaotically-disengaged family functioning and depression and anxiety for females only. Results may inform interventions for practitioners who provide services.