Effects of psychological capital and self-esteem on emotional and behavioral problems among adolescents

Background: Psychological capital (PsyCap) and self-esteem can potentially affect mental health among adolescents and can be used effectively to cope with stress. Aim and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between PsyCap, self-esteem, emotional, and behavioral problems and to determine the extent to which PsyCap and self-esteem predict the variability in the emotional and behavioral problems of school-going adolescents. Methodology: The present study was cross-sectional, and schools were selected using purposive sampling technique. A total of 387 samples were included based on the Krejcie and Morgan method to determine the sample size. Sociodemographic datasheet, PsyCap Questionnaire, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (self-report) were administered. Results: The prevalence of emotional and behavioral problems was found to be 21.6% (abnormal level), and self-esteem had a negative correlation with emotional and behavioral problems (r = -0.208 P < 0.01) and a positive correlation with PsyCap (r = 0.409; P < 0.01). Self-esteem was found to be a significant predictor for emotional and behavioral problems. Conclusion: Emotional and behavioral problems of the adolescent population are closely related to self-esteem and PsyCap. Building PsyCap and self-esteem can strengthen the mental health of adolescents.