Self-Concept Deficits in Adolescents with Mental Health Conditions: A Comparative Study with Non-Clinical Peers

Abstract

Background: Psychological problems are quite common during adolescence. It has been estimated that about one in every five adolescents experiences depression, anxiety, or excessive irritability, adversely affecting family relationships, peer friendships, and the development of self-concept. Aim: The present research aims to study the comparison of self-concept among adolescents in clinical and non-clinical populations. Methodology: A total of 60 participants were selected from the school and mental hospital, 30 clinical and 30 non-clinical, through purposive sampling, who met the exclusion and inclusion criteria. An equal number of adolescents were taken. Assessment of selected samples was done by using a consent form, socio-demographic and clinical data sheet, brief psychiatric rating scale for children (BPRS-C). The data gathered was analyzed and interpreted with the help of Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 20 (SPSS-20). For the analysis of obtained data, a t-test was applied. Result: There was a significant difference between the self-concept among adolescents in clinical and non-clinical population. Conclusion: These findings underscore the clinical importance of self-concept assessment and support the development of school-based preventive mental health interventions targeting adolescent self-concept and resilience