Influence of family support and sociodemographic factors on anxiety levels among young people in Semarang, Indonesia

BACKGROUND: There have been concerning trends in the prevalence of anxiety among young people worldwide in recent years. Research into the influence of family support and sociodemographic factors on anxiety in young people has been conducted in various countries. AIM: To investigate the influence of family support and sociodemographic factors on anxiety levels among young people in Semarang, Indonesia. METHOD: This quantitative study used a cross-sectional approach and descriptive correlational design. The sample comprised 421 young people aged 16-18 years from four schools selected through proportionate stratified random sampling. Data were collected via a sociodemographic questionnaire, the 'family' subscale of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale. Statistical data analysis was conducted using Chi-squared test and Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: About one third of participants (34%) experienced mild anxiety and about one half (52%) received good family support. Statistical analysis showed statistically significant associations between gender and anxiety (with girls more prone to anxiety than boys) and between family support and anxiety (family support being a protective factor for young people's mental health). CONCLUSION: These results can inform the development of targeted, gender-responsive interventions, including counselling, psychoeducation and emotional support. Integrating a gender perspective and fostering positive parent involvement may enhance the prevention, early detection and management of anxiety among young people.