The main purpose of this study was to examine the causal relationship between rolefulness and depression. In particular, the mediating effect of self-esteem on the relationship between rolefulness and depression was examined. Based on data from 856 Japanese high school students, three models were constructed and the validity thereof examined. The most appropriate model revealed that social rolefulness affected internal rolefulness, self-esteem, and depression. Subsequently, internal rolefulness improved self-esteem and reduced depression.
