Self-Esteem as Mediator Between Family Communication, Peer Support, Emotional Intelligence, and Adolescent Social Competence

Social competence is a crucial aspect of adolescent development, influenced by intrapersonal and interpersonal factors. This study examines the direct and indirect effects of family communication, peer support, and emotional intelligence on social competence, with self-esteem as a mediator, among students in Full-Day Islamic secondary schools. Using an ex post facto quantitative design and survey method, data were collected from 700 students across four Islamic schools in Indonesia implementing the Full-Day School program. Analysis was conducted with SEM (AMOS 23.0) and the Sobel test. Results show that family communication, peer support, and emotional intelligence significantly and positively influence self-esteem and social competence, with self-esteem partially mediating these effects. The findings highlight the importance of family support, positive peer relationships, and emotional regulation in developing adolescents' social skills. The study recommends promoting emotional intelligence programs and increasing parental involvement to enhance communication and strengthen students' self-esteem and social competence.