INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XV, Issue II, February 2026
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Exploring Social and Individual Influences on Teenagers’ Mental
Well-Being
Dr. Nargish Bano
1
,
Dr. Shahnaz Bano
2
& Dr. Arif Mohammad
3
1
Teacher, Upgraded High School, Behbuldangi, Kishanganj, Bihar, India.
2
Academic Consultant, CIET_NCERT, New Delhi, India.
3
Assistant Professor, Department of Teacher Training and Non-formal Education (IASE), Jamia Millia
Islamia, New Delhi, India.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2026.15020000019
Received: 12 February 2026; Accepted: 17 February 2026; Published: 03 March 2026
ABSTRACT
Mental health encompasses more than the absence of illness; it represents a fundamental dimension of overall
quality of life. Adolescence, marked by rapid emotional and social changes, often exposes individuals to various
stressors. Teenagers should possess the ability to effectively cope with these situations. Many teenagers,
however, struggle to cope with adverse experiences, leading to compromised psychological well-being. There is
a need to identify the factors which adversely impacts on their mental wellness. This study aimed to identify key
factors influencing the mental health of teenagers and to assess their overall mental well-being. Employing a
quantitative, descriptive research design, data were collected from a randomly selected sample of 40 adolescents
using a structured questionnaire. The major findings are –there are many social and individual factors affecting
mental health such as gender, organizational environment, social background, Parental occupation, locality,
Parental education. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions and strategies to foster resilience
and promote sound mental well-being among teenagers.
Keywords: - Teenager, Social Factors, Individual Factors, Education and Well Being
INTRODUCTION
Education is essential for all, but today, many teenagers are losing interest in their studies due to mental health
issues (Wisdom et al., 2013; Hill, 2010). They appear attentive but are often distracted. Some students frequently
miss classes, arrive late, or appear withdrawn and silent due to mental distress. During lessons, some may engage
in disruptive behaviors like chatting, drawing, or disturbing the class. These actions often stem from poor mental
health rather than intentional misconduct.
Good mental health involves more than the absence of illness; it encompasses emotional well-being, resilience,
and the ability to handle stress. In today's competitive environment, many teenagers find it difficult to manage
challenging life situations, leading to compromised mental wellness. Thus, it is crucial to identify and address
the factors negatively impacting their mental health.
Research has shown that yoga and meditation can reduce mental health issues like anxiety, depression, fatigue,
and stress (Shaerman et al., 2012). In India, yoga is not only a physical practice but also a spiritual one, helping
individuals connect with inner peace. Religious faith and practices also play a positive role in mental health
(Levin, 2010), though it does not imply immunity from illness.
Myths around mental health, such as it being a rare or permanent condition or a sign of weakness, continue to
persist (Froese & Riel, 2012). Schools can play a key role in debunking these myths and promoting mental well-
being. Mental health significantly affects academic performance and social behavior (McLeod et al., 2012; Evans
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XV, Issue II, February 2026
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et al., 2018). Curricula often neglect mental health needs, which can harm students' development (Ebadi et al.,
2016).
This study aims to examine the factors influencing teenage mental health and assess their level of mental well-
being.
METHODS AND MATERIALS
The study is quantitative and descriptive in nature. A survey method was used to collect data.
Participants
A total of 40 teenagers were selected randomly, comprising 20 male and 20 female participants.
Instruments
A structured questionnaire was developed in two sections:
● Part A: Background Information – Includes details such as gender, caste, school type, locality, and
parents’ occupations and education.
● Part B: Mental Health Assessment – Contains 15 yes/no questions, divided into three categories:
school-related factors, peer group influences, and family-related issues.
Procedure
The questionnaire was administered directly by the researchers. Participants’ responses were carefully analyzed
using descriptive statistics, including frequency distributions.
RESULTS
Section A: Background Information
Table 1: Demographic information of the teenagers
S.No.
Category
Subcategory
Frequency
1
Caste
General
16
OBC
12
SC
6
ST
6
Total
40
2
Father’s Occupation
Government
4
Private
12
Nil
0
Not alive
2
Self-employed
22
Total
40
3
Mother’s Occupation
Government
1
Private
6
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Housewife
24
Not alive
1
Self-employed
8
Total
40
4
Father’s Education
Illiterate
0
10th
6
12th
14
Graduation
12
Postgraduate
8
Total
40
5
Mother’s Education
Illiterate
2
10th
4
12th
8
Graduation
18
Postgraduate
8
Total
40
Section B: Mental Health Indicators
Table 2: Teenagers' Responses
Item No.
Statements
Response of teenagers
Yes
No
1
Do you have high self-esteem?
17
23
2
Are you satisfied with your family?
30
10
3
Do you consider your parents as your well-wishers?
25
15
4
Do you feel your importance in your family?
23
17
5
Do you feel unhappy in your family?
26
14
6
Do you obey your parents?
19
21
7
Do you feel happy to help your peer group?
27
13
8
Do you share your happiness with your friends?
16
24
9
Do you believe your friends will support you when needed?
17
23
10
Are you satisfied with the relationship with your friends?
10
30
11
Do you feel safe in your school?
13
27
12
Do you like the building of your school?
15
25
13
Do you think your school library is useful for you?
12
28
14
Do you think that sufficient efforts are not being made by
teachers to maintain the facilities?
16
24
15
Are you satisfied with the facilities in your school?
4
36
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DISCUSSION
The findings reveal that multiple factors influence teenagers' mental health, including social background, school
environment, parental occupation and education, peer relationships, and self-esteem. Teacher attitudes and peer
behavior also significantly affect students' mental well-being.
The data suggests that many students are dissatisfied with school facilities and do not feel safe or supported.
Issues in family dynamics and peer relations also contribute to mental health challenges. Therefore, schools must
recognize these challenges and implement strategies to support students' emotional and psychological well-
being.
Interventions like yoga, meditation, counseling, and awareness programs are essential. Teachers need to be
trained in recognizing mental health issues, and schools must offer counseling services. Students must be
provided opportunities for recreational and stress-relieving activities.
CONCLUSION
This study concludes that several factors including gender, physical and social background, school environment,
parental influence, and teacher-student relationships significantly affect teenagers' mental health.
Suggestions
Schools should create supportive environments for both students and teachers.
Mental health awareness should be integrated into the school curriculum.
Regular mental health check-ups and counseling should be made available.
Students should be encouraged to engage in healthy and meaningful activities.
Teachers should receive training in mental health support.
Parents must be educated about teenage mental health to foster a nurturing home environment.
Recreational and physical education activities should be encouraged to reduce stress.
Monthly lectures by mental health professionals should be organized.
Establishment of guidance and counseling centers in every school is essential.
Promoting mental health in teenagers is a shared responsibility of schools, families, and communities. With
timely intervention and consistent support, teenagers can thrive both academically and emotionally.
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XV, Issue II, February 2026
Page 216
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