The Relationship between Self-concept and Anxiety among Kerman University Students

Individual's self-concept is of great importance for mental health professionals, and it can be said that an individual has mental health if he/she has a positive self-concept. Recognition of factors affecting mental and physical health of persons, especially students, is of special importance. Accordingly, the objective of this research was to investigate the relationship between self-concept and anxiety amongst university students and to find strategies to improve their mental health status.
This is a cross-sectional descriptive - analytical study. Statistical population included all students studying in the intended university in Kerman during the academic year 2010-2011. A total of 375 students were randomly selected through cluster sampling. Data gathering instruments were "Beck self- concept" and "Cattell Anxiety" questionnaires. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and regression model.
According to the obtained results, there is no relationship between anxiety and self-concept. But age showed a significant relationship with anxiety in a way that anxiety decreased with age increase.
It seems that self-concept and anxiety have no relation. But, younger students probably need more support for controlling their anxiety.