Internet altruistic behavior and self-consistency and congruence among college students: A moderated mediation model of self-efficacy and self-esteem

Previous studies have identified the positive relationship between Internet altruistic behavior (IAB) and psychological health. However, few studies have investigated the relationship between IAB and self-consistency and congruence (SCC), and less is known about the mediating and moderating mechanisms underlying this relationship. The current study explored the association between IAB and SCC, and examined the mediating role of self-efficacy and the moderating role of self-esteem. A total of 1037 college students (Mage = 20.16 years, SD = 1.57) completed anonymous questionnaires regarding IAB, self-efficacy, self-esteem, and SCC. Results indicated that IAB was positively related to college students’ SCC, and self-efficacy partially mediated this relationship. The direct relation between IAB and SCC, and the relationship between IAB and self-efficacy, were both moderated by self-esteem. The relationships between IAB and SCC, as well as between IAB and self-efficacy were stronger for college students with high levels of self-esteem. These findings contribute to a better understanding of how and when IAB may be associated with college students’ SCC, and provide new perspectives for the promotion of college students’ mental health.