The Role of Self-Perception in Mental Health: Current Insights on Self-Esteem and Self-Schemas

Radhwan hussein Hussein^1*Mariwan Qadir Hamarash²Abdulhakeem Jamil Ahmed³Salwa Hazim Al Mukhtar⁴Marghoob Hussein Yaas²

• ¹Department of Clinical Nursing Sciences, College of Nursing, Ninevah University, Ninevah, Iraq
• ²College of Nursing, Al-Kitab University, Kirkuk, Iraq
• ³Department of Nursing, Northern Technical University, Mosul, Iraq
• ⁴University of Mosul College of Nursing, Mosul, Iraq

Background: Self-perception, encompassing self-esteem and self-schemas, is a critical determinant of mental health. In post-conflict settings such as Mosul, Iraq, where prolonged exposure to trauma, displacement, and socio-economic instability has disrupted personal and community identity, understanding this relationship is vital for developing effective interventions. Aim: To examine the relationship between self-perception (self-esteem and self-schemas) and mental health among adults in Mosul, and to explore the cultural and contextual factors influencing this relationship. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted among 232 adults residing in Mosul. Quantitative data were collected using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Self-Schema Questionnaire, and General Health Questionnaire-28. Qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with 20 purposively selected participants. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Results: Low self-esteem was reported by 41.4% of participants, and over half (52.6%) showed signs of possible psychological distress. Self-esteem (r = 0.52, p < 0.001) and positive self-schemas (r = 0.48, p < 0.001) were positively correlated with mental health, while negative self-schemas were negatively correlated (r = –0.55, p < 0.001). Multiple regression identified self-esteem (β = 0.37, p < 0.001), negative self-schemas (β = –0.34, p < 0.001), and employment status (β = 0.19, p = 0.014) as significant predictors of mental health, explaining 46.2% of the variance. Qualitative findings revealed three themes: identity reconstruction after conflict, cultural pressures on self-perception, and resilience through community support. Conclusion: Self-perception is a key determinant of mental health among adults in Mosul. Strengthening positive self-esteem and restructuring maladaptive self-schemas may enhance psychological resilience in post-conflict recovery. Interventions should be culturally tailored, incorporating community and family support systems.