The Silencing the Self Scale: An exploration of construct validation and an exploration of self-esteem as a mediator in the prediction of depression from self-silencing scores

The Silencing the Self Scale (STSS) is a new measure and as such is relatively untested. The first part of this study extended research on construct validation of the STSS by examination of its concordant and discriminant validity with several other instruments. Convergent validity was examined via correlations with the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ) - neuroticism scale, the Personal Attributes Questionnaire-Femininity scale, several scales of the Inventory of Interpersonal Relationships (IIP) and the Cognitive Style Questionnaire. Divergent validity was measured via correlations with the EPQ-Lie scale and two subscales of the IIP. There appears to be some support for convergent validity, whereas the evidence for divergent validity is mixed. Most strikingly, the STSS showed an appropriate amount of convergence with the EPQ-neurotic scale, and it showed divergence with the EPQ-lie scale. The second part of the study was a test of self-esteem as a mediator in the prediction of depression from self-silencing, in accordance with the theory implicitly stated by Jack and Dill (1992). Results consistent with this hypothesis were obtained. However, according to Jack and Dill's theory and in accordance with their preliminary findings, this model of mediation should only predict depression in women. The findings indicate that this model of mediation predicts depression in both men and women.Chairs: Dianne Chambliss; Anthony Ahrens.