Menachem M. Kiwak Ph.D, LMHC

Adolescence is a critical period for psychological development, where experiences can leave lasting marks on mental health. For young individuals facing illnesses like cancer, the mental burden can be even heavier. Two recent studies offer insights into how cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and personality traits contribute to enhancing the well-being of young people, especially when navigating significant life challenges such as cancer or self-esteem struggles.

The Impact of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Young Cancer Patients

A recent study from the University of Michigan highlighted how cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly improves the mental health and quality of life of young cancer patients. The psychological toll of dealing with a cancer diagnosis, along with the side effects of treatment, often leaves young patients facing depression, anxiety, and diminished overall wellness. CBT, which focuses on reframing negative thought patterns and redirecting emotions, has proven to be a powerful tool in helping these individuals cope.

This study, led by Anao Zhang, looked at 132 clinical trials with over 13,000 participants, ranging in age from 4 to 76. The research revealed that CBT is especially effective for patients under 40, helping them “talk back” to unhelpful thoughts and ultimately improving their outlook on life and their illness.

However, for older cancer patients (65+), the same positive effects were not as pronounced. Researchers speculate this may be due to differing priorities among older adults, as well as a stronger preference for in-person therapy over virtual sessions, where human connection plays a crucial role.

The Role of Personality in Shaping Self-Esteem During Adolescence

Meanwhile, a separate study published in Journal of Personality & Social Psychology explored how personality traits influence self-esteem development in adolescents. The study, which followed German adolescents over the course of a year, examined how traits from the Big Five personality model—extraversion, agreeableness, openness, conscientiousness, and neuroticism—shape changes in self-esteem.

The researchers, led by Kristina Bien, found that personality traits are closely linked with self-esteem. Adolescents who scored higher in extraversion and conscientiousness tended to report higher self-esteem over time. In contrast, those who were more neurotic experienced decreases in self-esteem as their neurotic tendencies increased. Interestingly, changes in traits like extraversion and openness had a reciprocal relationship with self-esteem, suggesting that as these traits grew stronger, so did self-esteem, and vice versa.

This complex interplay between personality traits and self-esteem development underscores the importance of understanding individual psychological profiles when supporting adolescent mental health.

Merging Insights: Therapy and Personality as Building Blocks of Resilience

While these two studies focus on different areas—cancer patients’ mental health and personality-driven self-esteem—they share a common theme: the significant impact of psychological intervention and personality development on young people’s mental well-being.

For young cancer patients, CBT helps combat the negative emotional spiral associated with their illness. In the broader adolescent population, personality traits like conscientiousness and openness build the foundation for stronger self-esteem and resilience. Together, these findings emphasize the need for early, targeted psychological support that addresses both situational challenges—like illness—and intrinsic traits, ensuring that young people develop the emotional tools necessary to thrive despite life’s difficulties.

Ultimately, understanding how therapies like CBT and individual personality traits interact can guide more personalized approaches to mental health care during adolescence, helping young individuals navigate complex challenges with greater confidence and emotional stability.