This study examined the relationship between religion, a history of emotional neglect and mental well-being in adolescents. The mental well-being of adolescents in the Netherlands has declined...Show moreThis study examined the relationship between religion, a history of emotional neglect and mental well-being in adolescents. The mental well-being of adolescents in the Netherlands has declined concerningly in recent years. An experience of emotional neglect can have a substantial impact on mental well-being. Despite the serious consequences that can follow, emotional neglect has received limited attention. Therefore, this study examines to what extent religion can be a protective factor for adolescents’ mental well-being. Religion can serve as a form of social support and can be an important source of identity-building. Adolescents (N=217) aged 16 to 24 completed an online survey, containing different questionnaires. Mental well-being was measured using the WEMWBS and emotional neglect using the CTQ-SF. Religion has been surveyed on two aspects: beliefs and religious practice, both using questions from an existing dataset. Results were obtained across three groups: Christians, Muslims and non-believers. First, a one-way ANOVA showed that there was no difference between nonbelieving, Christian and Muslim adolescents in their mental well-being. In addition, the regression showed that religious practice did not appear to significantly predict adolescents' mental well-being. Finally, the multiple regression did show a significant result: emotional neglect significantly predicts lower mental well-being. However, religion does not influence the effect between emotional neglect and adolescents' mental well-being. In conclusion, no evidence was found that religion has an effect on adolescents' mental well-being. Religion was also not found to be a protective factor after experiencing emotional neglect. However, this research has confirmed that emotional neglect has a negative effect on adolescents’ mental well-being. Therefore, emotional neglect and adolescents’ mental well-being deserves more public and scientific attention.Show less
