Exploring the Relationship between Positive Youth Development Components and Anxiety Evels among Adolescents

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between key components of Positive Youth Development (PYD) — Competence, Confidence, Social Connection, Character, and Care — and varying anxiety levels in adolescents. The objective was to identify how these components correlate with anxiety and highlight areas where interventions could be focused to support mental well-being. The study utilized descriptive and correlational analyses of data collected from a sample of adolescents (N=92). Five C of PYD components were measured alongside anxiety levels, which were categorized into minimal, mild, moderate, and severe. Descriptive statistics, such as means, medians, modes, and standard deviations, were calculated for each PYD component and anxiety category. Regression analysis was performed to examine the relationship between the PYD components and anxiety severity. The descriptive analysis showed that all PYD components had moderately high average values, with Competence (M=3.3, SD=0.7), Confidence (M=3.1, SD=0.8), and Social Connection (M=3.4, SD=0.6) being the most prominent. Regression analysis revealed significant negative correlations between higher levels of PYD components and lower levels of anxiety, especially in categories of moderate and severe anxiety. Competence, Confidence, and Social Connection were the most predictive of lower anxiety levels, with stronger negative correlations observed in higher anxiety categories. For instance, Competence had a correlation of -0.45 for minimal anxiety and -0.60 for severe anxiety. The findings suggest that enhancing PYD components, particularly Competence, Confidence, and Social Connection, is associated with lower anxiety levels in adolescents. Interventions to foster these components may contribute to improved mental health outcomes, including reduced anxiety. The study underscores the importance of a holistic approach to youth development to promote both psychological well-being and social competence. DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/cike2024.08; UDC: 159.942-053.6; JEL Classification: I12, J13, O15