The Mediating Role of Core Self-Evaluation (CSE) in the Relationship Between SPA and Subjective Well-Being (SWB) Among Undergraduate Students in Enugu State

Abstract

Sexual and physical abuse (SPA) are serious adverse experiences that can negatively affect psychological functioning and well-being. This study examined the mediating role of core self evaluation (CSE) in the relationship between SPA and subjective well-being (SWB) among undergraduate students, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 672 students (447 females, 225 males; age 18–29 years, M = 20.75, SD = 2.63) drawn from eight universities and one college of education using multi-stage purposive and availability sampling. Participants completed standardized instruments: the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire for SPA, the Core Self-Evaluations Scale for CSE, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale for SWB. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and mediation analysis with PROCESS (Model 4) and 5,000 bootstrap samples. Results showed that SPA was marginally associated with CSE (b = 0.309, p = .067), while CSE significantly predicted SWB (b = 0.264, p < .001). The direct effect of SPA on SWB was not significant (b = -0.146, p = .224), but the indirect effect through CSE was significant (effect = 0.082, 95% CI [0.0001, 0.182]), indicating full mediation. These findings suggest that the impact of SPA on SWB operates primarily through CSE. Interventions that strengthen self evaluation such as counselling, resilience, and empowerment programs may improve well being among students who have experienced abuse.