The Effects of Family Strength on Self-Esteem in Children with Disabilities: The Serial Multiple Mediation Effect of Peer Attachment and Acceptance of Disability

This study examined the structural relationships among family strength, peer attachment, acceptance of disability, and self-esteem among children with disabilities. Data were sourced from the fourth to sixth waves of the Disability and Life Dynamics Panel (DLDP). The results were as follows: First, family strength showed significant positive effects on peer attachment, acceptance of disability, and self-esteem. Peer attachment also positively predicted both acceptance of disability and self-esteem, and acceptance of disability significantly enhanced self-esteem. Second, indirect effects revealed that peer attachment mediated the relationship between family strength and acceptance of disability, and acceptance of disability mediated the relationship between peer attachment and self-esteem. Consequently, the sequential mediating effects of peer attachment and acceptance of disability were confirmed in the pathway from family strength to self-esteem. These findings suggest the importance of strengthening family and peer relationships and promoting acceptance of disability to enhance self-esteem among children with disabilities.