Page 48 - GHES-3-3

Global Health Economics and
Sustainability
Personality and adolescent mental health

adolescence, reflecting a developmental tendency toward Conversely, adverse environments marked by conflict,
experimentation and risk-taking behaviors (Crone & van neglect, or chronic stress can reinforce maladaptive
Duijvenvoorde, 2021; Defoe et al., 2022; Del Giacco et al., personality traits, such as impulsivity, aggression,
2022; Romer, 2010; Romer et al., 2017; Willoughby et al., and neuroticism (Barlow et al., 2014; Kupferberg &
2021). Adolescents are biologically and socially inclined to Hasler, 2023; Shafti et al., 2021; Widiger & Oltmanns,
seek out new experiences and assert their independence, 2017). Adolescents exposed to these stressors often
which can lead to fluctuating behaviors. However, over struggle with emotional regulation, which can lead to
time, these traits tend to diminish as adolescents acquire mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and
greater self-regulation skills and begin to understand the behavioral problems (Cole & Diaz, 2024; Lin & Guo,
long-term consequences of their actions. This decline 2024; Paulus et al., 2021). Longitudinal research shows
in impulsive and sensation-seeking behaviors typically that the combination of environmental adversity and
coincides with the transition into adulthood, where pre-existing personality vulnerabilities significantly
more measured and deliberate decision-making becomes increases the risk of negative life outcomes (Assary
necessary (Herman et al., 2018; Pechmann et al., 2005; et al., 2018; Hopwood et al., 2011; Rakhshani & Furr,
Quinn & Harden, 2013; Shulman et al., 2016; Wasserman 2021; Tzouvara et al., 2023). These findings highlight
et al., 2020). the importance of addressing environmental factors in
At the same time, traits such as CU characteristics, interventions aimed at promoting healthy personality
which are linked to a lack of empathy and emotional development.
depth, show a higher degree of stability across adolescence
(Bäker, 2024; Goulter et al., 2024; Sakki et al., 2023; Waller 6.2. Predictive value of personality traits
et al., 2020; Winters et al., 2022). CU traits are often The predictive power of personality traits has been a major
associated with persistent antisocial behaviors, including focus of longitudinal studies, particularly in understanding
aggression, manipulation, and rule-breaking. These traits how these traits influence long-term outcomes. Traits
are particularly concerning because they are less likely to such as conscientiousness and emotional stability are
change without targeted intervention. Adolescents who consistently linked to positive outcomes in both mental
exhibit high levels of CU traits are at an increased risk for health and behavioral domains (Bogg & Roberts, 2013;
long-term negative outcomes, including criminal activity Furnham & Cheng, 2024; Goktan et al., 2022; Lamers et al.,
and social isolation (Facci et al., 2023; Michielsen et al., 2012). Adolescents who have high conscientiousness are
2022; Miron et al., 2020; Ramião et al., 2024; Squillaci & typically more disciplined, organized, and goal-oriented,
Benoit, 2021; Thøgersen et al., 2022; Waller et al., 2020). which translates into better academic performance,
Early identification and intervention are crucial for stronger relationships, and a greater sense of life satisfaction
addressing CU traits and preventing their escalation into (Meyer et al., 2023; Moreira et al., 2020; Sorić et al., 2017;
more severe behavioral problems in adulthood (Dotterer Wang et al., 2023). These traits contribute to a proactive
et al., 2021; Miller et al., 2014; Pisano et al., 2017; Sesso & approach to life, where individuals are better equipped to
Milone, 2022; Waller et al., 2020).
set and achieve personal goals, manage stress, and build
Environmental influences are equally critical in shaping meaningful social connections.
personality development. Supportive environments, such
as those characterized by positive family relationships, In contrast, neuroticism and impulsivity have been
strong peer support, and structured activities, contribute associated with a range of negative outcomes, including
to the development of adaptive traits such as agreeableness, poor mental health, substance abuse, and delinquent
conscientiousness, and emotional stability (Asquith et al., behavior (Asaoka et al., 2020; Kaiser et al., 2012; Lahey,
2022; Briley & Tucker-Drob, 2014; Eisenberg et al., 2014; 2009; Ruiz et al., 2023). Adolescents who exhibit high levels
Tackman et al., 2017; Zhu et al., 2023). Adolescents who of neuroticism are more prone to experiencing emotional
grow up in nurturing environments are more likely to instability, anxiety, and depression, which can persist into
develop traits that promote healthy relationships and adulthood if not addressed (Aldinger et al., 2014; Liu et al.,
emotional well-being. These environments provide 2020; Morken et al., 2024; Yang et al., 2023). Similarly,
opportunities for adolescents to learn and practice social adolescents who have high impulsivity are more likely
skills, self-discipline, and emotional regulation, all of which to engage in risk-taking behaviors, such as substance use
contribute to the stabilization of positive personality traits and unsafe sexual practices, leading to potentially harmful
over time (Doménech et al., 2024; Farley & Kim-Spoon, long-term consequences for their health and well-being
2014; Paulus et al., 2021; Sahi et al., 2023; Soto et al., 2024; (Megías-Robles et al., 2023; Mlouki et al., 2021; Romer,
Wesarg-Menzel et al., 2023). 2010; Winters et al., 2009).

Volume 3 Issue 3 (2025) 40 https://doi.org/10.36922/GHES025080013