Perceived stress and Self Esteem among school going adolescents : A Gender Perspective

Abstract

Background: Adolescence is a traditional period and it is the bridge between childhood and adulthood. It is the time of rapid development of growing to sexual maturity, discovering one’s real self, defining personal value and finding one’s vocational and social direction. Healthy self-esteem is the experience of being competent to cope with the basic challenges of life, stress and being worthy of happiness. Stress is the major source of many problems among adolescents and it may lead to low self-esteem. Many psychological problems such as depression and suicide occur as a result of low self-esteem and confidence. Objectives: To assess and compare gender differences among school going adolescents in terms of perceived stress and self-esteem. Sample: 200 school going adolescents (100 male respondents & 100 female respondents) have been included randomly in the study. Design: Data collected was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS-20 version) Tool:Semi-Structured Socio Demographic datasheet was used to collect the relevant socio demographic information followed by Perceived Stress Scale and Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale. Result: Data Collected was analysed using statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS-20 version) The study findings highlights significant gender differences among school going adolescents in terms of perceived stress and self- esteem. Conclusion: The findings of the study reported that female school going adolescents perceive more stress and less self-esteem as compared to their male counterparts Keywords: Perceived stress, Self Esteem, adolescents, Gender Perspective