Improving Self-Esteem and Building Self-Confidence in Adolescent Mothers: Implementation of Self-Efficacy-Focused Activity Sessions.

Adolescent mothers have been shown to have lower self-esteem than nonparenting adolescents. The purpose of the current clinical project was to explore the feasibility of adopting a school-based support group model to provide education and skills for increasing self-esteem and self-confidence among adolescent mothers using self-efficacy-focused activity sessions. This project took place at an alternative public school for pregnant and/or parenting female adolescents. Participants attended self-efficacy-focused activity sessions, and completed the General Self-Efficacy Scale. Increased confidence in finding solutions demonstrated statistical correlation with the number of sessions attended. Development of positive self-esteem and self-confidence remain important concerns during the adolescent period. Implementing self-efficacy activities in a school-based setting is one potential approach to improving self-esteem. Further exploration into ways to foster positive mental health and build confidence in adolescents is recommended. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 57(8), 11-15.].

Asthma and obesity: the dose effect.

Asthma is one of the most common chronic illnesses in the world, affecting an estimated 300 million people. Globally, the prevalence of asthma has continued to spread as economic improvements in developing countries create a population trend toward urbanization and adoption of a western lifestyle. Research supports an association between obesity and asthma. Only by making weight management a priority in the treatment of asthma can the rising prevalence of both diseases be hindered and global health improved.