SELF ESTEEM AND PEER PRESSURE AS PREDICTORS OF THE PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL BEING OF ADOLESCENTS.

This study investigated the predictive roles of self-esteem and peer pressure on adolescent psychological well-being. Psychological well-being during adolescence is essential for navigating academic, social, and emotional challenges. A sample of 250 secondary school students (125 males, 125 females; mean age = 14; age range = 10–19 years) was selected from two schools in Delta State, Nigeria, using simple random sampling. Three standardized instruments were used: the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Psychological Well-being Scale by Carol Ryff, and the Peer Pressure Questionnaire–Revised. Four hypotheses were tested using multiple regression analysis. Results revealed that self-esteem and peer pressure significantly and jointly predicted psychological well-being. Specifically, higher self-esteem was associated with better psychological well-being, while higher susceptibility to peer pressure correlated with lower well-being. These findings underscore the importance of fostering self-worth and helping adolescents resist harmful peer influences. The study highlights the need for schools and parents to implement emotional intelligence training, mentorship, and peer support programs to enhance adolescent resilience and psychological functioning. Keywords: self-esteem, peer pressure, psychological well-being, adolescents, mental health.