The role of positive affect in the relationship between neuroticism, self-esteem, and emotional clarity in adolescents

The relationship between neuroticism and emotional clarity has been a prominent topic of research in the context of adult development and well-being. However, there is a scarcity of studies examining this relationship in adolescents. The primary aim of this research was to explore the role of positive affect and self-esteem in the associations between neuroticism and emotional clarity in adolescents. A sample of 742 secondary school adolescents (aged 13–19) completed the Neuroticism subscale from the Big Five Inventory, the Emotional Clarity subscale of the Trait Meta-Mood Scale, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and the Positive Affect Scale. Findings highlighted that positive affect acted as a buffer, moderating the negative associations between neuroticism, self-esteem, and emotional clarity. Additionally, self-esteem emerged as a mediating factor in the relationship between neuroticism and emotional clarity. These results suggest that the negative impact of neuroticism on self-esteem and emotional clarity could be alleviated by the experience of positive affect. Insights from this study can guide future interventions aimed at adolescents characterized by neuroticism and low emotional clarity, thus contributing to preventive health strategies.