Examine the psychological and social effects of prolonged unemployment among educated youth, using a quantitative approaches

Abstract

Unemployment remains a critical global concern, particularly in developing nations where rapid educational advancement outpaces employment opportunities. This study investigates the psychological and social effects of prolonged unemployment among educated youth, Pakistan a rural region facing limited economic development. The research addresses a significant gap by examining how extended joblessness influences mental health, self-esteem, and social relationships among degree-holding individuals unable to find employment for more than six months. The primary purpose of the study is to explore how prolonged unemployment impacts the psychological well-being and social integration of educated youth, with particular attention to the mediating role of self-esteem and the moderating influence of family support. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed, using structured questionnaires administered to a purposive sample of 242 unemployed youth. The study utilized established scales such as the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and DASS-21, and statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS and AMOS. Findings reveal that prolonged unemployment significantly correlates with increased psychological distress and adverse social effects. Self-esteem was found to mediate this relationship, with lower self-esteem exacerbating mental health issues and social withdrawal. Moreover, family support emerged as a significant moderator, buffering the negative effects of unemployment on self-esteem and psychological health. These results carry substantial theoretical and practical implications. The study reinforces Jahoda’s Latent Deprivation Theory by illustrating how the absence of employment disrupts psychological and social functioning. Practically, it underscores the need for multi-dimensional interventions including mental health services, self-esteem enhancement programs, and family-based support initiatives to mitigate the consequences of youth unemployment. By focusing on a rural, under-researched population, this study contributes novel insights to the discourse on unemployment and offers a localized framework for policy and community-level support mechanisms.

Keywords: Psychological Factors, Social Effects, Unemployment, Quantitative Approach, Educated Youth