Influence of Environmental Factor on the Stress of Adolescents.

ABSTRACT

Environment can be defined collectively as physical, social, economic and psychological forces which affect the society in general and individuals in particular. The lengthiness of adolescence, the myriad changes, the uncertainty about the future, the anxiety over choices and other real life situations bring about stressful conditions to the adolescents. The Influence of Environmental factor (Socio Economic Status) on the Stress of adolescents was analyzed in 600 adolescents in the age group of 15 – 16 years, selected from various colleges of Mysore City. Out of 600 selected subjects 300 were adolescent boys and 300 were adolescent girls who represented equally all the three socio-economic groups namely, upper, middle and lower groups. The Socio Economic Status Scale and the Perceived Stressful Life Events Scale was administered to assess the Socio Economic status and the Environmental Stress of Adolescents. The results revealed that the lower class adolescent boys and girls exhibited comparatively high degree of environmental stress ranging from severe to moderate levels as compared to middle and upper class adolescent boys and girls and adolescent boys have experienced high degree of stress ranging from severe to moderate levels as compared to the adolescent girls. A highly significant difference is noted between the environmental factor and stress of adolescents. Parental care, involvement, guidance and immense support in time of need benefit and ensure adolescents healthy development.