A Model of Behaviors, Peer Relations and Depression: Perceived Social Acceptance as a Mediator and the Divergence of Perceptions

A theoretically derived latent–variable structural model of children's (age 9 to 13, N = 334) behaviors (physical and relational aggression, withdrawal, and prosocial behavior), like–dislike as rated by classmates (peer dislike), perceptions of social acceptance, and depressive symptoms was tested. Results provided evidence that children's perceived social acceptance is a direct correlate of depressive symptoms, and a mediator of the link between peer dislike and self–reported depressive symptoms. In models testing physical and relational aggression separately, children's aggression, withdrawal, and prosocial behavior were directly associated with peer dislike. Freeing paths to differ for boys and girls did not significantly improve the fit of any model. Additionally, the discrepancy between actual and perceived peer acceptance (e.g., children's under– or overestimation of acceptance) was considered. Children who perceived low acceptance or underestimated their acceptance were relatively more depressed, and perception, rather than actual dislike by classmates, was most directly linked to children's functioning.