The Role of Perceived Social-Emotional Competence in Adolescents’ Mental Health: The Longitudinal Mediating Effect of Peer Relationship and Teacher-Student Relationship

Abstract

Introduction: Perceived social-emotional competence (PSEC) has been identified as a critical factor influencing adolescent mental health. However, limited research has explored the underlying mechanisms linking PSEC to both psychological distress and subjective well-being. Methods: This longitudinal study investigated the associations among PSEC, psychological distress, and subjective well-being, as well as the potential mediating roles of peer relationships and teacher-student relationships. A sample of 452 adolescents (aged 16–19 years) participated in the study. Structural equation modeling was employed to examine the hypothesized mediation pathways. Results: Correlational analyses showed significant associations among PSEC, subjective well-being, psychological distress, peer relationships, and teacher-student relationships. Longitudinal mediation analyses revealed that the relationship between PSEC and psychological distress was fully mediated by peer relationships. In contrast, the effects of PSEC on subjective well-being were explained by both direct effects and the mediating roles of peer and teacher-student relationships. Discussion: These findings underscore the importance of supportive interpersonal relationships in adolescent mental health. The results suggest that enhancing peer and teacher-student relationships may be a valuable target for interventions aimed at strengthening the positive impact of PSEC.