A Study on Self-Esteem and Mental Health among Young Adults

Young adulthood represents a critical developmental phase characterized by significant personal, social, and professional transitions that profoundly influence psychological well-being. Among the various psychological factors, self-esteem plays a pivotal role in shaping mental health outcomes. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between self-esteem and mental health among young adults, with specific focus on examining the influence of gender and marital status on these variables. The sample comprised 80 young adults selected from different areas of Ranchi district, Jharkhand, using convenience sampling technique. The sample included both male and female participants, consisting of married and unmarried young adults. Standardized psychological tools were administered, namely the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Statistical analysis was performed using independent t-tests and Pearson correlation coefficient. The findings revealed significant differences in self-esteem and mental health across gender and marital status groups. Male young adults demonstrated significantly higher self-esteem and better mental health compared to females. Similarly, unmarried participants exhibited higher self-esteem and better mental health than married participants. A significant negative correlation was found between self-esteem and mental health distress, indicating that higher self-esteem is associated with lower psychological distress. The study concludes that self-esteem serves as a vital protective factor for mental health, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.