The effects of self-esteem and peer relationship on the association of materialistic values with life satisfaction among Mexican-origin adolescents

Abstract

Negative associations between adolescents' materialistic values (MV) and their wellbeing have been well documented; however, the underlying mechanisms driving this relationship remain insufficiently understood. Using longitudinal data from 674 Mexican-origin adolescents, this study addressed this gap with adoption of structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. A negative association between materialistic values and life satisfaction (ages 14 & 16) was found. Furthermore, the findings revealed that higher materialistic values predicted lower self-esteem, which in turn led to decreased life satisfaction. Same-sex—but not opposite-sex—peer relationship served as an alternative explanatory factor. This study demonstrated self-esteem, as compared to same-sex peer relationship, played a more substantial role in mediating the relation between materialistic values and life satisfaction. Gender similarity—rather than gender difference—was identified in these processes. These findings should have significant implications for educators seeking to design intervention programs aimed at mitigating adverse effects of materialism on adolescents.