HBSC briefing paper 25: self-confidence and social well-being in Scottish adolescents

Extensive research has analysed the role played by feelings of confidence, social isolation and schoolrelated pressure in adolescent daily functioning. For many adolescent behaviours, social context and social acceptance play an important role Adolescents go through a period of social reorientation where the opinions of peers can become more important compared to those of family members. In this context, some of the main drivers for risky adolescent behaviours arise from the desire to be accepted by one’s peers, and avoid social rejection and exclusion. Self-confidence, as another driver of adolescent wellbeing, is important and undergoes developmental change during this period. High levels of self-confidence are associated with lower levels of loneliness and increased levels of psychological well-being. Moreover, school-related stress had been related with increased likelihood for experiencing problems such headaches, backaches and dizziness.