Analysis from the National Lottery-backed mental health programme HeadStart found that emotional difficulties for girls increased by 17 per cent between the ages of 11 and 14.
In contrast, boys of the same age are one of the most stable groups of young people in terms of mental wellbeing, with emotional problems decreasing slightly, by five per cent, in their early teens, researchers found.
Mental health experts say the findings show the need to invest in supporting pre-teen and younger adolescents with their mental health as they make the move from primary to secondary school.
The study involved the views of more than 10,000 children aged 11 to 14, carried out by the programme’s evidence gathering unit based at children’s charity Anna Feud Centre and University College London.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
