Development of socio-emotional competencies for the prevention of psychosocial risks in young people: impact on mental health and emotional well-being

Abstract

This study examines how the development of socioemotional
competencies influences the prevention
of psychosocial risks and impacts the mental health
of upper secondary students at Complejo Educativo
“Dolores de Brito” in Sonsonate, El Salvador. Using a
mixed-methods, correlational approach with a nonexperimental,
cross-sectional design, structured surveys
were administered to 110 students and semi-structured
interviews to four teachers, aiming to identify levels of
socio-emotional development and risk factors related to
emotional well-being. The findings show high levels in
the dimensions of self-awareness, self-regulation, social
awareness, and interpersonal skills, while responsible
decision-making and psychosocial risks appear at psychosocial risks appear at moderate levels. It
is concluded that strengthening socio-emotional
competencies is an effective preventive mechanism
against anxiety, stress, and school demotivation, and it
contributes to building healthy, inclusive, and resilient
educational environments. The study underscores
the need to integrate emotional education as a
cross-cutting axis of holistic training and to promote
institutional programs that ensure the well-being and
mental health of the Salvadoran student population.