Mental Health Among Youths: Perceptions of Occupational Competence, Occupational Value, Growth Mindset and Academic Self-Efficacy

With increasing prevalence of mental health issues, this study examined associations between mental health symptoms, occupational competence (OC), occupational value (OV), academic self-efficacy (ASE), and growth mindset (GM) in adolescents. Thirty-nine Singaporean students completed validated self-report measures before and after a 12-week period spanning examinations. Quantitative analysis found higher internalizing and externalizing symptoms associated with reduced OC and OV post-exams. Internalizing symptoms correlated with decreased ASE, while externalizing symptoms related to lower GM. Attention problems significantly predicted diminished OC. Improvements in OC and reductions in symptoms were observed post-exams. Results suggest interventions should support youths’ attentional capacity and holistic functioning.