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The Effect of Social Expectations on Young Adults' Mental Health
Eid, Huda
Eid, Huda
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Thesis-Final.pdf
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Abstract
The current study aimed to investigate the impact of social expectations on the mental
health of young adults in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, focusing on the dimensions of
depression, anxiety, and stress. To achieve this objective, the study employed a
descriptive approach within a cross-sectional design. Data was collected via an
electronic questionnaire distributed to a non-probability sample (a mix of purposive
and convenience) of 150 young adults, predominantly female (86%). The data was
analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28.
Descriptive statistics were used to profile the sample and study variables, in addition
to Pearson correlation and simple linear regression analysis to test the hypotheses. The
main findings revealed a strong, statistically significant inverse correlation between
social desirability (used as a proxy for social expectations) and all measured
dimensions of mental health. It was observed that participants who showed a greater
tendency to present themselves in a socially favorable manner reported lower levels of
depression, anxiety, and stress. Based on these findings, the study recommends the
necessity of designing and developing measurement tools that are appropriate for the
cultural and social context of Saudi Arabia to directly and accurately measure social
expectations. It also emphasizes the importance of conducting future research using
larger, more diverse, and gender-balanced samples to enhance the generalizability of
the findings and gain a deeper understanding of this phenomenon.
Keywords: Social Expectations, Young Adults, Mental Health, Social Desirability.