BACKGROUND: Labor value is the basic view and attitude of human to labor, which has a profound influence on the overall development of individuals. However, the long-term neglect of labor education in schools has exerted a negative influence on students' labor values. This not only affects their academic performance,but can also lead to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. METHODS: We recruited 1283 Chinese students by cluster sampling. And they were asked to complete the labor value scale, the Chinese positive youth development scale, and the internalization problem scale. RESULTS: (1) Positive labor values negatively predict depression/anxiety
(2) bonding and social competence play an important mediating role between labor values and depression/anxiety. CONCLUSIONS: Labor values significantly affect depression and anxiety, and bonding and social competence play a mediating role.