Peer Rejection And Mental Health Outcomes In Adolescents: The Indirect Effects Of Repeated Rejection In A Three-Month Follow-Up

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.13133/2724-2943/18733

Keywords:

adoelscent, mental health, peer rejection, repeated rejection, indirect effect, Vietnam

Abstract

This longitudinal study examines the long-term impacts of peer rejection on mental health among adolescents, with a specific focus on the indirect effects of repeated rejection. Data were collected from 478 students at two time points during the 2023–2024 academic year in Hanoi, Vietnam. Peer rejection was measured using a composite scale based on established tools, and mental health outcomes were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyse the relationships between variables. The results indicate that peer rejection at Time 1 (T1) significantly predicts both internalising problems (β = .207, p < .001) and externalising problems (β = .135, p = .035) at Time 2 (T2). Additionally, peer rejection at T1 significantly predicts repeated rejection at T2 (β = .627, p < .001). Furthermore, repeated rejection at T2 also significantly predicts internalising (β = .374, p < .001) and externalising problems (β = .281, p < .001) at T2. Indirect effect analysis shows that repeated rejection at T2 partially explains the relationship between early peer rejection and subsequent mental health problems, specifically internalising (β = .235, p < .001) and externalising problems (β = .176, p < .001). These findings highlight the detrimental effects of repeated peer rejection on adolescent mental health, underscoring the need for early interventions and targeted support in school environments. Addressing repeated peer rejection could help mitigate its long-term impact on both emotional and behavioural outcomes.

Author Biographies

Le-Hang Thi Do, Institute of Sociology and Psychology, Vietnam

Dr. Do Thi Le Hang is a psychologist and senior researcher in psychology. She has over 20 years of experience working at the Institute of Psychology. Currently, she is leader of the Department of Social Psychology. In addition, she is also involved in teaching and postgraduate training at several universities. Her strengths lie in research design, particularly in areas related to community mental health, school psychology, and social psychology

Mai-Huong Thi Phan, Institute of Sociology and Psychology, Vietnam

Associate Professor Dr. Mai-Huong Thi Phan is an experienced researcher in psychology and a postgraduate lecturer at several universities. With over 30 years of research experience, she has published 142 articles in both domestic and international journals and is the editor or author of 24 books. She has supervised 51 master's and doctoral students to date and contributes to postgraduate psychology training across five universities in Vietnam. Her research and academic supervision focus on topics including emotions, school psychology, mental health, social psychology, and research methods.

Phuong-Hoa Thi Nguyen, Institute of Sociology and Psychology, Vietnam

Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong Hoa is a researcher at the Institute of Psychology, Vietnam Academy Social Sciences. She has 24 years of research experience in the field of psychology. She is interested in the topics of developmental psychology and social psychology. She has participated in many research projects, as well as published many scientific articles. She is currently the deputy director and the journal of psychology's editor.

Loc Phuc Nguyen, Institute of Sociology and Psychology, Vietnam

Dr. Loc is a researcher at the Institute of Psychology, Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, and a teaching assistant at RMIT University Vietnam. She holds a PhD in Psychology and an MBA, combining expertise in psychological theory and organizational insight. Her research focuses on school and social psychology, particularly mental health literacy, academic motivation, and the influences of parenting and teaching styles on students. Dr. Loc is dedicated to contributing to effective educational practices that support mental well-being and engagement. Her work emphasizes both academic advancement and practical impact, aiming to foster healthier, more supportive learning environments.

Phuong-Thao Cao, Institute of Sociology and Psychology, Vietnam

Thao-Phuong Cao, M.A in Clinical Psychology, is a school psychology researcher and practitioner specializing in child and adolescent mental health. She is actively involved in both the practical and research aspects of psychology. Currently working in the Department of Applied Psychology at the Institute of Psychology, she applies leading research to develop practical interventions that support the mental health of young people in community contexts. As a researcher focused on applied psychology, Thao is committed to bridging the gap between theory and practice, providing valuable insights to enhance mental health support systems in educational and community contexts.

Minh-Thu Pham, Institute of Sociology and Psychology, Vietnam

Ms. Pham Minh Thu is currently a researcher at the Institute of Psychology, Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. As a psychologist with 14 years of experience, she is deeply interested in the topics of developmental psychology and social psychology. In recent years, her research topics have focused on adolescents with issues in the psychological development of the age stage, in relationships with friends and family to finding influencing factors and ways to help adolescents be happier. She has also participated in many scientific research projects, and has many scientific publications such as parts of books, scientific articles, conference reports. In addition, she also participates in guest lectures on subjects relevant to her expertise for a number of universities.

Quynh-Anh Ngoc Nguyen, Department of Psychology, School of Science, Engineering and Technology, RMIT Vietnam

Dr. Anh Ngoc Quynh Nguyen is a psychology educator, researcher, and program manager at RMIT University Vietnam, with over 15 years of expertise in psychology and education. She is currently the Program Manager for the Department of Psychology at RMIT Vietnam, where she leads initiatives in curriculum development, industry engagement, and academic research. Dr. Nguyen is recognized for her extensive contributions to mental health education and research. With a strong track record of publications and international collaboration, she actively supports community mental health through applied research and public outreach.

Additional Files

Published

2026-04-28

How to Cite

Do, L.-H. T., Phan, M.-H. T., Nguyen, P.-H. T., Nguyen, L. P., Cao, P.-T., Pham, M.-T., Dang, H.-Q. N., & Nguyen, Q.-A. N. (2026). Peer Rejection And Mental Health Outcomes In Adolescents: The Indirect Effects Of Repeated Rejection In A Three-Month Follow-Up. Psychology Hub, 43(01), 05–12. https://doi.org/10.13133/2724-2943/18733

Issue

Vol. 43 No. 01 (2026)

Section

Original Article

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