Effects of Anger and Entrapment on Psychological Health of High School Boys: Focused on the Mediating Effects of Social Support

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to identify the status of psychological health among boys in high school and to examine the mediating effects of social support on the relationship between anger and entrapment on psychological health. METHODS: The participants in this study were 193 high school boys from Jeju. Measurements included state-trait anger expression inventory, entrapment scale, student social support scale, and questionnaires to assess mental and physical health. Data were analyzed using independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, Scheffé test, Pearson correlation coefficient, simple and multiple regression techniques with the SPSS 21.0. Mediation analysis was performed with the Baron and Kenny's method, and Sobel test. RESULTS: Mean scores for anger experience, entrapment, social support, and psychological health were 29.81±7.34, 34.09±16.33, 45.75±7.02, 22.51±9.91, respectively. There was a significant correlation between anger experience and psychological health. Entrapment was significantly correlated with psychological health. Social support showed partial mediating effects in the relationship between anger experience and psychological health (Sobel test Z=54.18. p<.001). Social support showed partial mediating effects in the relationship between entrapment and psychological health (Sobel test Z=2.24. p=.025). CONCLUSION: The results indicate a need to develop social support programs for boys in high school.