The Influence of Core Self-Evaluation, Mindfulness, and Rumination on Emotional Distress

Abstract

Core self-evaluation (CSE) is a broad and latent trait which describes the fundamental appraisals made about one’s capabilities, competence and worth. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between CSE and emotional distress and to explore how mindfulness and rumination influence this relationship. Participants (N = 351) undertook an online survey consisting of four psychometric scales; Core Self-Evaluation Scale, Five Factor Mindfulness Questionnaire short form, Ruminative Response Scale short form, and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale. Study results indicated that core self-evaluation was negatively associated with emotional distress and that this relationship was partially mediated by mindfulness and rumination. When global factors of mindfulness and rumination were used, mediation in series was not present. However, when mindfulness was substituted for its sub-factor of non-judging of inner experience and rumination was substituted for its sub-factor of brooding, mediation in series was present. Results also showed that core self-evaluation had a stronger influence on depression than anxiety or stress. It was concluded that targeting core self-evaluation in interventions is likely to have efficacy in prevention and treatment of emotional distress. Where core self-evaluation is resistant to change, targeting mindfulness or rumination may also have efficacy in prevention and treatment of emotional distress.