Academic cheating and its effects on self - esteem in adolescents in schools of twin cities: A cross sectional Study.

Abstract

Background : Academic fraud is one of the most ongoing, and in some ways accepted practices in college students. There aren't much research on academic dishonesty in the Pakistan context, hence this study sheds a spotlight on this topic. The prevalence of academic dishonesty has been increased especially in schools, colleges, and universities, casting a shadow on the educational environment. It is crucial to understand the root causes and consequences of academic dishonesty in the specific cultural and academic context of Pakistan. Objectives: This study aims to bridge the knowledge gap by not only assessing the frequency and types of academic cheating but also by examining its profound impact on the self-esteem of adolescents in schools within Rawalpindi and Islamabad. By shedding light on these aspects, this research seeks to inform educational policies, interventions, and strategies to foster a culture of academic integrity while addressing the well-being of young learners in Pakistan's academic institutions. Methodology : A cross-sectional study was carried out in the public and private schools of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, two significant cities in Pakistan. The choice of these locations ensures a diverse sample of students from different socioeconomic backgrounds. A total of 361 students were selected through non-probability convenience sampling, considering the logistical feasibility of data collection. The students were administered an adapted self-administered questionnaire that holistically assessed academic dishonesty and its potential repercussions on the self-esteem and overall mental health of adolescents in schools. Result : The survey revealed that among the 361 respondents, a significant majority were male (n=245, 67.9%), highlighting the gender disparity in the sample. Importantly, the study uncovered a noteworthy association between academic dishonesty and self-esteem, as indicated by the statistically significant p-value of <0.04. This finding underscores the complex interplay between academic misconduct and the psychological well-being of adolescents, with implications for their holistic development. 6 Conclusion : In conclusion, this research underscores the pressing issue of academic dishonesty, which not only jeopardizes academic integrity but also exerts a detrimental impact on the self-esteem and mental health of adolescents in the educational settings of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. It underscores the urgency of addressing academic dishonesty as a multifaceted problem, emphasizing both academic integrity and the psychological well-being of students. The findings provide valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and parents working towards the comprehensive development of adolescents in this specific cultural and academic context in Pakistan. Keywords: Academic dishonesty, creative self-efficacy, intention to cheat, attitude towards cheating, subjective norms, gender disparity, academic integrity, educational policies, adolescent well-being, educational interventions, mental health.