Linking college students’ interpersonal relationships to their psychological well-being: The role of academic self-efficacy

The collegiate environment represents a pivotal developmental phase for students, wherein their cognition, emotions, and behaviors are influenced by interactions with educators and peers. In this study, we examined the associations between college students’ interpersonal relationships and their psychological well-being, as well as the mediating role of academic self-efficacy in these relationships. Utilizing structural equation modeling to analyze data obtained from 309 students at a Chinese university, the results revealed that the students’ relationships with parents, peers, and teachers were positively related to the psychological well-being of the students, with academic self-efficacy serving as a mediator in these relationships. This research underscores the importance of interpersonal relationships and academic self-efficacy in shaping students’ psychological well-being. In light of these results, recommendations are proposed for the implementation of interventions at educational institutions aimed at enhancing the psychological well-being of students.