Education, Sense of Mastery, and Mental Health in Norway
Author Information
Author(s): Dalgard Odd Steffen, Mykletun Arnstein, Rognerud Marit, Johansen Rune, Zahl Per Henrik
Primary Institution: Norwegian Institute of Public Health
Hypothesis
The study investigates the association between level of education and psychological distress, and explores the mediating role of sense of mastery and social variables.
Conclusion
Low sense of mastery accounts for much of the association between low educational level and psychological distress.
Supporting Evidence
- There was a significant association between low level of education and psychological distress in both genders.
- Sense of mastery emerged as a strong mediating variable between level of education and psychological distress.
- Low level of education was significantly associated with low sense of mastery, low social support, and many negative life events.
Takeaway
People with less education often feel less in control of their lives, which can make them feel more anxious or depressed.
Methodology
Data were obtained from the Level of Living Survey conducted by Statistics Norway in 2002, using self-administered questionnaires and register statistics.
Potential Biases
There may be under-representation of people with mental and social problems due to the nature of survey participation.
Limitations
The study is based on cross-sectional data, making it difficult to draw conclusions about causality.
Participant Demographics
The study included individuals above the age of 15 years, with a response rate of 70.4%.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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