International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Self – Esteem as a Predictor of Psychological Well- Being Among Adolescents Across Socio-Economic Status Levels

This study explores the role of self- esteem as a significant predictor of psychological well- being among adolescents across different socio- economic status (SES) levels. Grounded in developmental and ecological systems theories, the research examines how individual psychological resources interact with structural socio- economic conditions to influence mental health outcomes. While socio- economic disparities are widely associated with variations in adolescent well – being, not all youth exposed to socio-economic disadvantage experience poor psychological outcomes. This suggests the presence of protective psychological factors, among which self – esteem is particularly salient. The study investigates whether self –esteem independently predicts psychological well- being conceptualized through indicators such as life satisfaction, emotional regulation , positive effect, and reduced depressive and anxiety symptoms after accounting for both objectives SES (e.g., Parental income, education, occupation) and subjective SES ( Perceived social standing). It further examines whether self- esteem functions as a mediating mechanism through which SES influences well- being, or as a moderating factor that buffers the negative psychological impact of socio- economic conditions. Using standardized psychometric instruments and multivariate statistical analyses, the research aims to clarify the strength and direction of these relationships. It is anticipated that higher levels of self- esteem will be associated with better psychological well- being across all SES groups, with particularly strong protective effects among adolescents from lower socio- economic backgrounds. The findings are expected to contribute to adolescent developmental research and mental health intervention strategies by emphasizing self- esteem as a critical psychological asset. Enhancing self –esteem may serve as an effective approach in reducing socio- economic disparities in adolescent mental health and promoting resilient developmental trajectories.