Social and emotional skills as scaffold for mental well-being of children and adolescents: A construct

Pages: 334-336
Rekha Sapra (Department of Human Development and Family Empowerment, Bharati College, University of Delhi, Delhi)

Social and emotional competencies learnt during early childhood years have proven to be of utmost importance in enhancing social relationships, conflict resolution, and academic success during early years. Research in the domain has found significant positive relationship between social and emotional skills in children and mental well-being. Children who acquire these competencies are able to handle conflict and challenges in an amicable manner. During adolescent years studies have conclusively indicated the positive role of emotional regulation in healthy identity formation and mental health. Coupled with this are the benefits of better school adjustment, social interactions and school related success. Depression and anxiety witnessed during adolescent and early adulthood years can to a large extent be prevented by the school based programmes. Adolescents, as it is are in a very vulnerable state to mental health related challenges. School settings are ideal to promote social and emotional well-being of all the children thus helping to reduce the incidence of social emotional and behavioural problems during later years. The paper explores the role of social and emotional competencies which can benefit a child and adolescent in social adjustment and prevent psychopathology during childhood and adolescent years. The preventive approach can be of significant relevance in terms of potential to reduce the mental health burden and promote better mental health.