Abstract:
In this study, we investigated psychosocial factors associated with
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) among adolescents in two socioeconomically
and ethnically different communities in Ghana. We examined
two objectives; to test the predictors of GAD and to examine differences
between the two groups on the predictors of GAD. We studied 300
adolescents aged between 13 and 19 years who responded to a sixscale
questionnaire that measured GAD, parental perception, adolescent
coping, adolescent religiosity, peer pressure, and self-esteem. We found
a higher prevalence of GAD in Obuasi and consistent patterns of risks and
protection in both communities. Non-productive coping and low parental
involvement were found to be risk factors while self-esteem was found to
be a protective factor against GAD. We discuss these findings in the
context of socioeconomic and psychological differences among the adolescent
population in Ghana
