Ochendo: An African Journal of Innovative Studies

This study examines the impact of gender stereotypes and stigmatisation on the mental health of young adults as depicted in two African novels—Stay with Me by Ayobami Adebayo and Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi. Gender roles and societal expectations in African contexts often impose rigid standards, limiting personal identity and contributing to mental health challenges when individuals fail to conform. The study addresses the gap in understanding how African narratives reflect the psychological impact of these stereotypes and stigmatisation. Using textual analysis, this study critically examines how the characters in both novels navigate societal expectations, identity crises, and stigmatisation. Intertextuality and Identity Theory form the theoretical foundation, providing tools to explore how literature reflects and reinterprets cultural norms and identity construction. The findings reveal that unmet societal expectations lead to anxiety, depression, and emotional distress among the characters. The novels suggest that acceptance, empathy, and identity negotiation are key to overcoming these struggles. The work recommends increased awareness and mental health support for young adults grappling with identity conflicts and stigmatization within African societies.

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