Digital Literacy, Self-Efficacy, And Psychological Well-Being Among Selected Junior High School Students in Lemery, Batangas

This study explored the relationship among digital literacy, self-efficacy, and psychological well-being of junior high school students in Lemery, Batangas using a descriptive-correlational design. Data were gathered through structured questionnaires and analyzed using mean scores and Pearson product-moment correlation. Results revealed that students demonstrated high levels of digital literacy, particularly in ethical and responsible digital use, online safety, and information evaluation. Respondents also reported generally strong self-efficacy across academic, social, and emotional domains, reflecting confidence in managing tasks, interactions, and emotional regulation. In contrast, psychological well-being was moderate, with students experiencing noticeable levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. Correlation analysis indicated significant positive associations between digital literacy and self-efficacy, suggesting that stronger digital competencies are linked to higher confidence. Certain aspects of digital literacy, such as ethical use and information evaluation, showed low but significant negative correlations with psychological well-being. Similarly, self-efficacy demonstrated consistent negative relationships with psychological well-being, with emotional self-efficacy exerting the strongest influence. These findings highlight the dual role of digital literacy and self-efficacy: while they enhance confidence and competence, they also reveal complex interactions with students’ mental health. Based on these results, the study proposed an intervention plan, Project L.I.F.E., designed to enhance digital competence, strengthen self-efficacy, and promote holistic well-being among adolescents. The study underscores the importance of integrating digital literacy and self-efficacy development into educational programs to support both academic success and psychological resilience in the digital age.