Aworefa Tolulope: Nigerian scholar shaping global perspectives on adolescent mental health

Michael Adesina

As global concerns about adolescent mental health continue to grow, understanding how cultural, familial, and educational contexts shape young people’s wellbeing has become increasingly urgent.

On 15 January 2026, Tolulope Aworefa, an educational and clinical psychologist in training, published a groundbreaking study in the Behavioural Sciences journal examining how perfectionism mediates the relationship between parental expectations and depressive symptoms among Nigerian adolescents. His research provides a culturally grounded lens on adolescent mental health, offering insights that resonate across Nigeria and the African continent.

Aworefa explained that while perfectionism has been widely studied in Western contexts, evidence from African populations is scarce. “The study seeks to understand how academic pressures, often seen as expressions of love and hope, can impact adolescents’ emotional health. Not every young person experiences these pressures the same way, and recognizing these differences is vital for effective support,” he noted.

The research focused on two dimensions of perfectionism: personal standards and concern over mistakes. By analyzing data from Nigerian secondary school students, the study revealed that adolescents who internalize parental expectations as personal goals tend to develop purpose and motivation that safeguard their well-being. Conversely, those who internalize expectations with fear of failure exhibit heightened emotional distress, excessive self-criticism, and vulnerability to depression.

This work carries significant implications for families, educators, and policymakers. The findings underscore the urgent need for school-based mental health programs that prioritize emotional resilience alongside academic achievement. Aworefa emphasized that interventions should equip parents and teachers with the tools to foster high standards without triggering fear or shame, ultimately promoting balanced personal growth.

Beyond its academic contribution, the study establishes a framework for culturally informed mental health initiatives in Nigeria. As Aworefa highlighted, “We hope this research sparks national dialogue on adolescent mental health, inspiring evidence-based approaches that consider our unique cultural context while guiding families, schools, and communities toward healthier support systems.”

By combining rigorous research methodology with culturally relevant insights, Tolulope Aworefa’s study stands as a landmark contribution to African adolescent psychology, offering actionable insights that bridge science, education, and community well-being.