Family Adversity and Relationship Quality for Pacific Islanders and the Mediating Role of Coming to Terms, Self‐Esteem, and Depression

Abstract

This study investigated the association between family of origin (FOO) adversities and relationship quality for Pacific Islanders as well as the potential intermediary role of coming to terms (CTT), depression, and self-esteem. The sample consisted of 226 self-identified Pacific Islanders who completed the RELATE assessment (see www.relate-institute.org). Results indicated that greater levels of FOO adversity predicted lower levels of CTT. However, higher levels of CTT in turn associated with higher self-esteem, and lower levels of depression. Results also indicated that greater FOO adversity associates with lower relationship quality indirectly. The clinical implications of these findings and directions for future research are discussed. BACKGROUND AND SIGNIFICANCEClinical literature focusing on relationship quality within various ethnic minority groups is increasing.