SELF COMPASSION, GRATITUDE AND PERCEIVED PARENTAL SUPPORT AS PREDICTORS OF EMOTIONAL, SOCIAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING AMONG IN-SCHOOL ADOLESCENTS IN OSOGBO, OSUN STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This cross-sectional study investigated the predictive influence of self-compassion, gratitude and perceived parental support on emotional, social and psychological well-being among in-school adolescents in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria.

A total of 376 adolescent students in public and private secondary schools completed self-report measures. Respondents’ age ranged from 11-19, with a mean age of 14.5. Linear regression was used to examine the predictive influence of the independent variables on emotional well-being, social well-being and psychological well-being.

Self-compassion significantly predicted emotional well-being (β = .32, p < .01), social well-being (β = .22, p < .01), and psychological well-being (β = .28, p < .01). Gratitude also significantly predicted emotional well-being (β = .28, p < .01), social well-being (β = .11, p < .05), and psychological well-being (β = .34, p < .01). Further, perceived parental support was a significant predictor; perceived father support significantly predicted emotional well-being (β = .30, p < 0.01), social well-being ((β = .17, p < .01), and psychological well-being (with β = .37, p < 0.01), and  perceived mother support significantly predicted emotional well-being (β = .42, R² =.18, p < 0.01), social well-being (β = .31, R² = .10, p < .01), and psychological well-being (β = .41, R² = .17, p < 0.01).

Maternal support, however, emerged as the strongest single predictor. Interventions that strengthen these psychological resources in adolescents and those that foster parental support and are recommended.

Keywords: Self-compassion, gratitude, perceived parental support, emotional well-being, social well-being, psychological well-being, adolescents