The Mediating Role of Savoring Beliefs in the Relationship among Family Functioning, Life Satisfaction and Depression

This study investigated the mediating role of savoring beliefs in the relationship among family functioning, life satisfaction and depression. The research method was descriptive (of correlational and structural equations modeling (SEM)). A total of 250male and female participants were selected from among married males and females in Isfahan using purposive sampling method according to the inclusion and the exclusion criteria. They filled out Adaptive Family functioning scale, Savoring Beliefs Inventory, Depressive Symptoms scale, and Diener’s Satisfaction with Life scale. Data analysis was conducted through Pearson correlation method and structural equation modeling using SPSS (version 23) and AMOS23. The results showed a positive and significant relationship among family functioning, life satisfaction and savoring beliefs. The results indicated a negative and significant relationship between the above-mentioned variables and depression (p < 0.001). In addition, the indirect effect of family functioning on depression was mediated through savoring beliefs, and that of family functioning while life satisfaction was mediated through savoring beliefs (p <0.05). The findings of this study emphasized the role of savoring beliefs (i.e., enjoying positive experiences) as an important correlation in the psychological consequences of Iranian families. As a result, the findings of this study can be used to improve the psychological problems of couples in Iran.