A STUDY OF SOCIAL INTERACTION ANXIETY AND QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG ADOLESCENTS

The adolescent stage, particularly among higher secondary students, is a critical period marked by significant physical, psychological, and social changes. In regions like Kerala, where academic pressure is high due to intense competition for entrance exams and professional courses, adolescents often experience overwhelming stress and anxiety. This pressure can lead to psychological issues, including anxiety disorders such as Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). SAD is characterized by an excessive fear of negative judgment in social situations, and it significantly impairs social functioning and quality of life (QoL). Often emerging in early adolescence, SAD can persist into adulthood, affecting academic performance, social interactions, and overall well-being. Research on the impact of SAD highlights considerable declines in physical health, psychological well-being, and social relationships. Therefore, interventions aimed at reducing social anxiety and improving coping strategies are essential for enhancing the QoL of adolescents. A study by Bakhshi (2014) on aged Kashmiri migrants in Jammu, India, explores gender differences in QoL. It found significant disparities, with male migrants reporting better physical, psychological, and social well-being, while no gender differences were observed in environmental health. This study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to improve the QoL of marginalized groups, including aged women, within migrant communities. This underscores the broader importance of addressing mental health issues like SAD and fostering environments that promote the overall well-being of adolescents and other vulnerable populations