NAVIGATING IDENTITY- EXPLORING SOCIO-CULTURAL FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE LOW SELF-ESTEEM AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN SELECTED SCHOOLS, ACCRA, GHANA
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: The study aimed at examining the influence of sociocultural factors on the self-esteem of adolescents aged between 12 and 15 years.
Statement of the Problem: Adolescents in low-income environments frequently experience low self-esteem due to multiple sociocultural challenges, including weak family support, peer pressure, and exposure to bullying. Despite increasing attention to adolescent mental health, few studies have systematically evaluated how these sociocultural factors collectively shape self-esteem outcomes among young adolescents in such settings.
Research Methodology: The study used a quantitative design, collecting data from 416 adolescents aged 12–15 years through the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and a sociocultural questionnaire. A sample of 124 was analyzed using SPSS with descriptive and inferential statistics to examine relationships between variables.
Findings: The study established that 37.8% of adolescents exhibited low self-esteem. Peer pressure (62.1%), inadequate family support (54.0%), and family-related challenges (51.6%) were the leading contributing factors, while media influence was relatively low (25.8%), reflecting limited access in low-income contexts. Academic performance was the strongest predictor, where higher academic self-ratings were linked with better self-esteem (p < 0.023). Moderate support from church leaders (p < 0.043) and recognizing bullying as a key influence (p < 0.011) were also associated with improved self-esteem.
Conclusion: The study concludes that family support, peer relations, and academic encouragement play a significant role in shaping adolescent self-esteem..
Recommendation: It is recommended that collaborative interventions involving schools, families, and religious institutions be implemented to build resilience, reduce bullying, and promote positive self-esteem among adolescents.
Keywords: Adolescents, sociocultural factors, low self-esteem, self-concept
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