A Study to Assess the Problem-Solving, Loneliness and Depression among Adolescents in a Selected School of Manipur

Abstract

Adolescence is the period when physical and emotional problems are experienced, which starts with sexual and psychosocial maturation and ends when the person has developed a sense of identity and become socially productive. This period is characterized with biological, psychological and social developmental changes. In order for an adolescent to grow up to be a healthy adult, he/she needs to have a healthy adolescence. Adolescence is a period of life with specific health and developmental needs and rights. It is also a time to develop knowledge and skills, learn to manage emotions and relationships, and acquire attributes and abilities that will be important for enjoying the adolescent years and assuming adult roles. Keeping this in mind, a cross-sectional study was conducted with objectives to assess the problem-solving abilities among adolescents; to assess the level of loneliness among adolescents; to assess the level of depression among adolescents; and to determine the association of loneliness and depression with problem-solving abilities. The study was conducted among 100 adolescents, studying at Young Pillars College, Churachandpur, Manipur, who were selected through systematic random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection and data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study findings revealed that 75% adolescents had average problem-solving abilities, 13% adolescents had good problem-solving abilities and 12% adolescents had poor problem-solving abilities. 82% sample subjects had moderate level of loneliness, 9% had mild loneliness and an equal percentage, i.e., 9% had severe loneliness. 70% adolescents had moderate depression, 18% severe depression and 12% had mild depression. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct awareness and campaigns on adolescents’ mental health issues in the community and educate teachers on adolescents’ psychological problems to prevent the occurrence of depression and loneliness among adolescents.