Relationships among mental health, self-esteem and physical health in Chinese adolescents: an exploratory study

J Health Psychol. 2010 Jan;15(1):96-106. doi: 10.1177/1359105309342601.

Abstract

This study explored the relationships among mental health, self-esteem and physical health in Hong Kong Chinese adolescents. Chinese students (N = 1945) between the ages of 12 and 19 from four secondary schools of different regions were invited to participate in the study. This study revealed that a significant number of adolescents in Hong Kong are experiencing depressive symptoms. The overall results indicated that self-esteem of adolescents was correlated to and a predictor of their physical and mental health. Health care professionals should take a more assertive role in promoting relevant health education to the community with emphasis on helping adolescents develop positive self-esteem.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Asian People / statistics & numerical data*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Health Status*
  • Hong Kong / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Research Design
  • Self Concept*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult