UNRAVELING BELIEFS IN ADOLESCENT EXISTENTIAL CRISIS: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY OF HIGH SCHOOL DISTRESS

Renata Dena Faradila Sugiarto, Husni Hanafi, Bambang Eko Wahyono

Abstract


Existential crisis is a psychological phenomenon commonly experienced by adolescents during the stage of identity formation. This study aims to explore the psychological dynamics of adolescents undergoing existential crises through the lens of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). Employing a qualitative phenomenological design, the study involved two main informants aged 17 and one key informant serving as a counselor. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation, and analyzed using the REBT A-B-C model, which comprises Activating Events, Irrational Beliefs, and Consequences. Findings indicate that existential crises among adolescents are primarily triggered by dysfunctional parental relationships and social influences such as digital media. Both informants exhibited deeply rooted irrational beliefs associated with low self-worth and feelings of meaninglessness. These beliefs produced adverse consequences across emotional, cognitive, and behavioral domains, including depression, insomnia, social withdrawal, and self-harm behaviors. The study highlights the complex interplay between external stressors and irrational cognitions in shaping adolescents’ existential struggles. These insights underscore the need for targeted interventions within school counseling settings to address activating events and restructure irrational beliefs, thereby promoting emotional resilience and adaptive coping strategies among adolescents.

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References


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