Psychosocial Problems among Adolescents in Selected Schools of Pokhara

Abstract

Introduction: Adolescence is a period when an individual experiences a variety of biological, psychological, and social changes. These multiple changes during the developmental period can make adolescents vulnerable to mental health problems. Therefore, early detection of psychosocial problems and addressing the needs of adolescents are crucial for promoting their mental health.The objective of this study was to assess the psychosocial problems among adolescents.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 140 adolescents studying in grades 9 and 10 in selected schools of Pokhara using self-administered technique. Simple random method was used to select representative sample. Data were collected by using structured questionnaire and Pediatric Symptom Checklist-Youth Report (Y-PSC). Analysis was done by using the statistical package for social science version-16 using descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests (chisquare test and Fisher’s exact test).

Result: Out of 140 adolescent students, a total of 17.1% of the adolescents were found to have psychosocial problems. While categorizing psychosocial problems, the adolescents had internalizing problems (24.3%), externalizing problems (16.4%) and attention problems (13.6%). There was a significant association between psychosocial problems and respondents’ variables like parental educational status, last examination achievement and academic stress.

Conclusion: The study concluded that about one-sixth of the respondents were affected by psychosocial problems, with internalizing problems being the most common followed by externalizing and attention problems respectively. Early identification and adequate counseling might help to prevent adverse consequences. So, family, school and health care provider combined effort play an important role.