Family Characteristics and Mental Health Status of Secondary School Students in a Rural Community in Southwest Nigeria

This study was conducted to determine the relationship between family characteristics and the mental health status of adolescents in secondary schools in a rural community in South west Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. Family functionality was assessed using family APGAR standardised instrument. Mental health was assessed using the strength and difficulty questionnaire. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test and binary logistics regression model atp <  0.05. A total of 279 respondents were assessed. The prevalence of clinically significant mental health problems was found to be 38%. The predictors of mental health problems were family functionality (OR = 2.2; CI = 1.267–3.885) and mothers’ occupation (OR = 0.39; CI = 0.159–0.995) Our study demonstrated that family characteristics affect the mental health of in-school adolescents. The enhancement of family relationship and socioeconomic status would promote the mental wellbeing of in-school adolescents.
Source: International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction - Category: Addiction Source Type: research