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Research Paper Final Nagid Ni
Research Paper Final Nagid Ni
Research Paper Final Nagid Ni
June 6, 2023
Acknowledgement
We wholeheartedly extend our sincere thanks and deepest appreciation to our Almighty
God whose unending grace, guidance, and protection helped us through with our research.
Without his help, this endeavor would not have been possible
First and foremost, we express our deepest gratitude to our English teacher, Mrs. Mae
Jane Heyasa-Catalan. Her unwavering encouragement, guidance, and support throughout the
entire process have been invaluable. We truly appreciate the motivation and advice she provided.
It is an honor to have been taught by her, and we have gained a wealth of knowledge and skills
Our heartfelt appreciation also goes to our parents, whose unwavering encouragement
and understanding served as our driving force, propelling us forward and helping us overcome
challenges and doubts. Their support and consideration played an instrumental role in our
success.
We cannot express enough gratitude to our friends, who selflessly offered their help,
motivation, and support. To Jack Catalan whose knowledge of the format of the research paper
helped greatly in the making of this study. And to Gabrielle Carumba who generously offered
Furthermore, we would like to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts and dedication of
Lastly, we express our sincere gratitude to all those who extended their help, whether
knowingly or unknowingly. To the individuals who supported us, offered advice, and provided
motivation, we appreciate every little contribution made throughout our journey. The support we
Table of Contents
Abstract……………………………………………………………………………………………4
Introduction………………………………………………………………………………………..5
Chapter 1…………………………………………………………………………………………..7
The Problem……………………………………………………………………………….7
Definition of Terms………………………………………………………………11
Methodology……………………………………………………………………………..14
Research Setting……………………………………………………….…………14
Research Instruments………………………………………………………….....16
References......…………………………………………………………………..……...…….......23
4
Abstract
Generation Z, which includes individuals born between 1997 and 2012 according to Pew
Research Center (2019), has grown up in a world shaped by digital and internet technologies. As
a result, they have developed a heightened awareness of the challenges facing our modern world.
Understanding the impact of this awareness on Generation Z's outlook for the future is crucial.
This research aims to quantitatively assess the level of optimism among members of Generation
Z and identify the factors that contribute to it. To achieve this the researchers analyzed the results
of two questionnaires filled up by 125 respondents, students of Mindanao State University Wao
Community High School including Senior High School students that all belong to the Generation
Z demographic (N= 135). The first test, the Revised Life Orientation Test (Scheier et al., 1994) is
a 10 item test designed to determine the level of optimism. And the researchers then developed a
second questionnaire to ascertain the factors that affect Generation Z’s level of optimism. The
second questionnaire is comprised of 10 items spanning issues from financial problems to mental
distress. Here the respondent ranks the factors that affect him or her the most. The results of both
tests are compiled, analyzed, and interpreted. The implications of this study are significant for
understanding which issues have the greatest impact on the 21st century’s first generation. By
identifying the factors that contribute to Generation Z’s level of optimism we can better support
and empower this generation to better face the challenges of the future.
mental health
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Optimism can be defined as the belief that something good will happen in the future
(Coelho et al., 2018). Mannheim (1952) asserted the belief that people are shaped through lived
experiences as a result of social change. The way these lived experiences shape a generation
affects their belief systems and values. These shared experiences also impacts the optimism of a
generation. The belief systems, values, and optimism held by individuals affect their
decision-making processes which have real life consequences. Previous research had separate
studies concerning optimism, generations, and the psychological effects of optimism. But we are
yet to find a research that addresses the effects of optimism on a particular generation,
Generation Z.
Generation Z were born on the years 1996 to 2012 (Pew Research Center, 2019). As of
writing this paper, the Generation Zs are aged 11-27.This qualifies all students of Mindanao State
University Wao Community High School as eligible respondents for this research.
The emergence of Generation Z is not just the turn of a century but also a period of great
change, turmoil and upheaval. Technological progress dominated the age. Generation Z was
raised together with technology. A survey by Pew Research Center conducted and published in
2021 reveals that a majority of internet users were aged 18-29. Never has a generation been so
connected as such an early age. This interconnectivity allowed for a greater awareness of the
world around them. It is this research’s purpose to assess the impacts of this heightened
awareness.
development. “…optimism could play a fundamental role in sustaining physical and mental
well-being and in dealing with threats potentially harmful to health” (Uribe et al., 2020).
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Optimism is not just a mental state separate from everything, it is connected to the basest parts of
human behavior and psychology. Generation Z is particularly vulnerable to the effects of varying
degrees of optimism.
Optimism plays a role in the mental health of Generation Z. Determining the factors that
contribute to their wishful thinking is necessary in order to better understand the fuller context.
Each person is unique and their reasons are as distinct as they are. This research aims to identify
common trends among differing experiences. And to pair that with the data obtained from
another survey, one that determines the level of optimism of the respondents, Generation Z. Both
Generation Z will define this century. Their actions and decisions will not just affect them
but older and younger generations also. Assessing the positivity and negativity of their outlook
of the future and determining the factors that affect it, is a necessary step in understanding
development. Understanding them better may help resolve the issues they currently face. So that
Chapter 1
The Problem
Approximately 10% of the world population and 20% of the children and adolescents are
affected by some mental disorders (World Health Organization, 2018). Uribe et al. (2020) noted
in their protocol for a systematic review of optimism and mental health that “Optimism is a
construct that has been empirically measured and validated in the field of study of positive
psychology, which is considered a generally stable personality facet, of cognitive nature and
related to motivation, that reflects to the extent to which people have generalised favourable
Evidence has indicated that levels of optimism in people influence how they face health
threats therefore, it has been described as a factor of protection, resilience and coping
occurs, favouring the psychological and physical well-being of adolescents and thus
becoming an active potential for the maintenance of mental and physical health.
According to the evidence, optimism works as a protective factor in mental health during
adolescence. Thus, for example, adolescents with high levels of optimism have a lower
behaviour and a lower tendency towards risk behaviours, such as consumption or abuse
This establishes that there is indeed a direct relationship between optimism and the
mental and physical health of adolescents, and optimism’s role as a protecting factor of one’s
mental health. Adolescents’ health issues are a concern for their future health and wellbeing
(Conversano et al., 2010; Patel et al., 2007). WHO (2013) reinforces the importance of wellbeing
in the context of young people and argue for positive skills development to secure them a
productive, happy and healthy life. Therefore, quantifying wishful thinking among Generation Z
members and the factors they think contribute most to it, could shed us light on the defining
variables that affects optimism and by extension the mental and physical wellbeing of Generation
Z. With the collected data, the researchers could know the general trend of optimism and could
assess, based upon said data if the respondents are at risk of armful behavior. And using this
mental health.
The focus of this research is to quantitatively assess the impacts of various factors in
students’ optimism and worldview and analyzing the possible causal relationships present
1. How optimistic are the Generation Z students of Mindanao State University Wao
2. What factors do the students think affect their optimism the most?
Given these two we, the researchers, would use the gathered data for the examination and
This research on assessing Gen Z’s outlook of the future and the variables that affect it
poses a variety of applications in the educational, psychological, and social spheres of Mindanao
State University Wao Community High School. This research aims to contribute to the growing
field of generational research and the growing concern for today’s adolescent’s mental health and
to inform the members of the education sector about the benefits and risks of high and low levels
For starters, the school administrators/ staffs and educators may have insights and
understanding about the values, thoughts, and concerns of their students. This knowledge can
inform curriculum development, teaching methods, and support systems that promote
motivation, resilience, and academic success. The teaching methods may enhance and the
effectiveness of this research can promote more healthy and relevant learning environment.
Second, the guardians of the students can benefit from this research through providing
insights of their children's perspective and thoughts. It may also equip the guardians with the
understanding their children’s viewpoints. This aids parents in providing guidance, support, and
resources that align with their children's desired future paths relationships giving assistance of
preparing their children for the challenges and opportunities of the future (Shahzad et al., 2020).
Furthermore, health professionals greatly benefit from this research for the reason that
optimism is related to mental well-being. It gives them insights and conclusions of this
generation's mental health needs, concluding the protective and risk factors. Mental health
professionals can utilize this knowledge to develop targeted interventions and support systems
Moreover, to this generation itself. This benefits them in a way of them being aware of
their own mentality, Research has shown that optimism is associated with better mental health
outcomes, including lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Optimistic individuals tend
to have more positive emotions, better coping mechanisms, and higher resilience in the face of
challenges (Albritton, M. & Williams, Y., 2022). This research can also increase their motivation
in life and goals that can lead to academic motivation and life satisfaction.
Overall, researching the optimism of Generation Z about the future has the potential to
benefit a wide range of people that includes: The school administrators, parents/ guardians,
professionals, and Generation Z themselves. In addition, We can gain valuable insights that
inform various domains, such as education, mental health, decision making, personal
Definition of Terms
This section includes words and terminologies that have been used repeatedly throughout
the research process. This section clarifies the definitions of the said words and terms so that it
Adolescent - refers to (of a young person) developing from a child into an adult.
Generation Z - refers to any individual born between 1996 and 2012. Referred to as ‘Gen Z’ in
Mental Health - defined as a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and mental
well-being.
Mindanao State University Wao Community High School - refers to one of the thirteen (13)
education.
Optimism - can be defined as the belief that something good will happen in the future.
Out of all students of Mindanao State University Wao Community High School enrolled
in the school year 2022-2023, one hundred and thirty-five (N=135) students were used as
samples in conducting this survey. This study limits its coverage to students of Grade levels 7, 8,
9, 10, 11, and 12 of Mindanao State University Wao Community High School. This study also
limits the scope of its respondents at their inclusion in the Gen Z age bracket. This study intends
to obtain the data of one hundred and thirty-five (135) students’ optimism scores and their
rationale for the former. Its main purpose is to identify the factors that affect Gen Z’s outlook on
life and to propose solutions and suggestions to deal with the problem. All the respondents are
chosen in a stratified random manner. Also data were gathered and satisfied utilizing
peer-reviewed survey-questionnaires obtained from reputable studies. This survey was done in
Introduction
Generation Z, also known as Gen Z, refers to the cohort of individuals born between the
1996 and early 2012 (Pew Research Center, 2019). This generation has grown up in a highly
connected and rapidly changing world, influenced by technology, globalization, and societal
shifts. Understanding the role of optimism within the context of Gen Z is essential for
comprehending their attitudes, behaviors, and well-being. This literature review aims to explore
the relationship between optimism and Generation Z, examining relevant studies and
Optimism as a Construct
expectation of positive outcomes, and the belief that adversity can be overcome. It has been
extensively studied within the field of positive psychology. Optimistic individuals tend to exhibit
higher levels of well-being, resilience, and adaptive coping strategies, which can contribute to
Uribe et al. (2020) discussed the empirical measurement and validation of optimism
within the field of positive psychology. In order to assess optimism, various tests have been
developed. One such test is the Life Orientation Test (LOT) introduced by Scheier et al. (1985),
which consists of 8 items. Subsequently, the Revised Life Orientation Test (LOT-R) was
introduced in 1994, expanding the scale to 10 items. Both the LOT and LOT-R aim to gauge
individuals' levels of optimism or pessimism regarding the future. These tests comprise three
positively worded items, three negatively worded items, and four filler items (Liu et al., 2021).
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Researchers widely employ the LOT-R and consider it a reliable tool within the field (Andersson,
1996).
Several studies have explored the relationship between optimism and psychological
well-being among Gen Z. Research by Uribe et al. (2020) found a positive association between
dispositional optimism and life satisfaction among adolescents. Similarly, a study conducted by
Ruch et al. (2020) revealed that optimism positively correlated with positive affect and
Optimism has also been linked to academic performance among Gen Z. A study by
Ickeson, et al. (2020) found that higher levels of dispositional optimism were associated with
better academic achievement and engagement in university students. Optimistic individuals tend
to approach challenges with a growth mindset, persist in the face of obstacles, and exhibit
The pervasive use of technology and social media among Gen Z has implications for their
levels of optimism. Some studies suggest that excessive use of social media can contribute to
lower levels of optimism and well-being among young people (Ürün et al., 2022). The constant
exposure to curated and idealized online lives may lead to social comparison, feelings of
inadequacy, and diminished optimism. However, further research is needed to fully understand
the complex relationship between technology use, social media, and optimism among Gen Z.
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Generation Z faces unique challenges that can impact their levels of optimism. These
challenges include economic uncertainty, political instability, climate change, and social
inequalities. Research by Uribe et al. (2020) demonstrated that exposure to societal stressors
negatively affected optimism and well-being among young adults. However, other studies
suggest that Gen Z's optimism may manifest in their proactive engagement with social and
environmental issues, reflecting their desire for positive change and a better future.
Research Gap
To date, several research studies have explored the underlying functions of optimism on
health. These studies include research on the importance of optimism in the treatment of chronic
diseases, in preventing the risk of acquiring a physical illness, in its relationship with quality of
life and well-being amid illness, as a factor that contributes to adaptation to chronic diseases, and
its role in post-traumatic growth related to physical illness. Although these studies shed light on
the role of optimism in health, there is still limited research focused on the relationship of
optimism with mental health or some of its components (mental disorders, psychological
well-being, and psychosocial factors). However, the findings from existing research have
primarily focused on understanding this relationship in clinical populations and mainly in adult
mental health and thus address these gaps, the present research aims to investigate the role of
optimism on mental health in adolescence, especially the students of Mindanao State University
Wao Community High School. By conducting this research, we seek to enhance our knowledge
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and fill the existing gaps in understanding the impact of optimism on the mental health and
Conclusion
The literature suggests that optimism plays a significant role in the psychological
technology and societal challenges may impact their levels of optimism, Gen Z also exhibits
resilience and proactive engagement with social issues. Further research is needed to explore the
complex interplay between optimism, technology use, and cultural factors among MSUans.
Understanding and promoting optimism among Gen Z can have profound implications for their
Methodology
This section deals with the research methodology of the study which includes the
research method used, the population and sampling scheme, respondents of the study, research
instruments, validation of the instrument, procedures in gathering data and statistical tools used.
Research Design
In order to explore the relationship between optimism scores and its factors as determined
A quantitative approach was used in this research with the survey questionnaires as its
primary research tool. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between the
Revised Life Orientation Test scores and the variables that affect optimism in the students of
Mindanao State University Wao Community High School for the school year 2022-2023, to
The primary tool for data collection is a two-part survey questionnaire specifically
Research Setting
The research was conducted at Mindanao State University Wao Community High School,
Mindanao State University Wao Community High School is one of the thirteen (13)
external units of MSU-Marawi under the leadership of Dr. Samsia M. Paitao-Dumrang, the
Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. It is widely regarded as one of the top
Barangay Eastern, Wao, Lanao del Sur, making it easily accessible to students from nearby areas.
The school’s academic programs encompass both Junior and Senior High School education, with
a focus on providing a holistic learning experience that equips students with the necessary
knowledge, skills, and values to become responsible citizens and excel in their future endeavors.
expect to receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in college and beyond.
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The study was conducted at Mindanao State University Wao Community High School,
with the participants being students. The students were divided into different grade levels for the
study. There were 20 samples from grade 7, 21 samples each from grades 8 and 9, 24 samples
each from grades 11 and 12, and 25 samples from grade 10. The researchers selected all students
Grade 7 20 100
Grade 8 21 100
Grade 9 21 100
Grade 10 25 100
Grade 11 24 100
Grade 12 24 100
Research Instruments
This study utilizes obtained and constructed questionnaires as the instrument for data
collection. There are two (2) parts of the instrument. Part I deals with the optimism score of the
respondents. Part II deals on what are the psycho-social factors that affect the respondents’
optimism score.
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questionnaire, validated by the instructor of the subject then the survey questionnaires are
distributed. The researcher conducts the research in Mindanao State University Wao Community
High School. The researchers inform the respondents the crucial nature of their response to the
study. The respondents clarifies some terms and provides the instructions to the respondents so
that they may respond to the survey questionnaire with utmost knowledge, responsibility and
honesty. The researcher uses purposive sampling, the sampling units are selected subjectively by
the researchers. The goal of this study is Assessing Generation Z’s Outlook of the Future, the
researchers believe that this method is most appropriate in choosing the sample for the research.
After the respondents answered the survey questionnaire, the researchers collected and tallied the
data for interpretation. Previous statistical studies were consulted to help in determining the
appropriate statistical tools to be used in interpreting the data. Based on the data the researchers
To interpret the data obtained accurately, the statistical tool, Spearman’s Rank Correlation
Coefficient was employed. This tool will determine the correlation between the results of the
References
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