The Relationship Between Parental Support and Self-Confidence Among Adolescents in School Settings

Abstract

Background:Adolescence is a formative period marked by significant psychological and emotional development, with self-confidence playing a crucial role in personal and academic success. Parental support has been identified as a key external factor influencing adolescents’ self-concept and overall well-being. However, empirical research exploring the specific relationship between parental support and self-confidence among school-going adolescents remains limited, particularly in non-Western contexts.

Aim:This study aimed to examine the relationship between perceived parental support and self-confidence among adolescents in school settings.

Methods:A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 500 adolescents aged 12–18 years, recruited from five secondary schools. Participants completed validated self-report questionnaires measuring perceived parental support and self-confidence levels. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, while Pearson’s correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine associations, adjusting for sociodemographic variables including age, gender, and socioeconomic status.

Results:The findings indicated that 68% of adolescents reported moderate to high levels of parental support, while 61% exhibited moderate self-confidence. A significant positive correlation was observed between perceived parental support and self-confidence (r = 0.48, p < 0.001). Regression analysis revealed that parental emotional support was the strongest predictor of self-confidence (β = 0.35, p < 0.001), even after controlling for confounders.

Conclusion:This study underscores the pivotal role of parental support in fostering adolescents’ self-confidence. The results highlight the need for parent-focused interventions and school-based programs that strengthen family engagement to promote adolescent psychological well-being.