The influence of single parenting stress on depression: mediating effect of self-rated health moderated by exercise

This study aims to investigate the mediating role of subjective health status in the relationship between parenting stress and depression among single parents, with particular emphasis on the moderating effect of physical exercise. We used national data from a sample of 3,300 South Korean single-parent households, 66.8% of whom were female-headed. Path analysis indicated that both the direct and indirect effects were significant, with stress being positively associated with increased levels of depression. The mediating pathway from stress to depression via self-rated health was found to be significant. Additionally, this study sought to empirically examine the moderating effect of exercise on the relationship between subjective health status and depression. These findings highlight the need for social work interventions aimed at reducing parenting stress among single parents. Furthermore, health management and exercise programs could be beneficial.