Factors Affecting Mental Health and Behavioral Problems in High School Students: Based on a Social Cognitive Career Theory

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to identify factors affecting mental health and behavioral problems among high school students through the lens of a Social Cognitive Career Theory. METHODS: A descriptive study was carried out with 384 high school students in Seoul, Korea. A self-administrative questionnaire was used. It consisted of items on person . background variables, career-related variables including career barriers, learning experiences, self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and career indecision, and mental health and behavioral problems. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis were performed using the SPSS 21.0 program. RESULTS: The results showed that perceived stress (t=5.12, p<.001), perceived health status (t=-4.08, p=.002), and school record (t=5.46, p<.001) were statistically significant variables. Also, career barriers (t=10.57, p<.001) was a significant factor influencing mental health and behavioral problems. CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that among career-related variables, career barrier needs to be considered for preventive and therapeutic approach to mental health and behavioral problems in adolescents. Furthermore, the results suggest that career-related stress level should be assessed in high school students on a regular basis.