International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

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18 pages, 1692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Meta-Analytic Framework for Developing Protocols to Attend Child and Adolescent Victims of Sexual Violence

by Flávia Fernandes Trevizan, Regiane Máximo Siqueira, Aílton de Souza Aragão, Hugo Henrique dos Santos and Fabiano Henrique de Oliveira Sabino

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(9), 5233; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19095233 - 26 Apr 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2075

Abstract

Violence against children and adolescents is a global public health problem. In Brazil, there are challenging boundaries for professionals in the protection network in general and for health professionals in particular. Moreover, among other factors, there is the challenge of referral, due to [...] Read more.

Violence against children and adolescents is a global public health problem. In Brazil, there are challenging boundaries for professionals in the protection network in general and for health professionals in particular. Moreover, among other factors, there is the challenge of referral, due to weaknesses in decision making, given the nature of sexual violence and how it is managed by healthcare services. This study aims to propose a Meta-Analytic framework to support the referral of young victims of sexual violence, considering levels of severity, independent of factors such as how protection systems are structured and managed and the local laws in force. We propose a Meta-Analytic approach, developed using the fundamentals of Delphi and DPSIR (Drivers, Pressures, State, Impact, and Response Model of Intervention), from the perspective of Value-Focused Thinking. The Delphi method was structured in two stages: the first stage aimed to identify and classify typical cases of sexual violence; the second stage used the DPSIR model, with the aim of identifying the decision criteria for typical cases that occur in a given municipality. The main outcomes are: (i) the application of the modified Delphi participatory method within the context of local social policies; (ii) the construction of a value tree based on Value-Focused Thinking; and (iii) the identification and systematization of criteria that most interfere with the evaluation of cases of sexual violence, which can be used for multi-criteria decision making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

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10 pages, 353 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Suicide Attempts among School-Attending Adolescents in Mongolia: Associated Factors and Gender Differences

by Javzan Badarch, Bayar Chuluunbaatar, Suvd Batbaatar and Edit Paulik

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(5), 2991; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19052991 - 4 Mar 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3216

Abstract

Attempting suicide is an important risk factor that can lead to suicide death. The aim of the current study was to examine the prevalence of suicide attempts and to identify the gender-specific predictors of suicide among adolescents in Mongolia. We analyzed data from [...] Read more.

Attempting suicide is an important risk factor that can lead to suicide death. The aim of the current study was to examine the prevalence of suicide attempts and to identify the gender-specific predictors of suicide among adolescents in Mongolia. We analyzed data from the 2019 Mongolian Global School-Based Health Survey (GSHS) conducted nationwide among 13–18-year-old students. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to assess the correlates of suicide attempts. Overall, 32.1% of the adolescents reported to have had suicide attempts. Multivariable analysis showed a significant association in the total sample of suicide attempts with lack of close friends, anxiety, injury and violence, smoking and alcohol drinking, and sexual intercourse. Male suicide attempters were less likely to have close friends and more likely to have injuries, been physically attacked, been bullied, smoke, drink alcohol, and have had sexual intercourse. Within the female subgroup, anxiety, injury and violence, smoking and alcohol drinking significantly increased the odds of reporting suicide attempts. Increase of the student’s age by one year decreased the odds ratio of suicide attempts. Nearly one in three students had had a suicide attempt. Several factors, including mental distress, violence, and risky behaviors were found to be associated with suicide attempts. These can aid in designing intervention strategies for preventing suicidal behaviors among adolescents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

12 pages, 1124 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Mediating Role of Contextual Problems and Sensation Seeking in the Association between Substance Use and Mental Health in Adolescents from Northern Chile

by Alejandra Caqueo-Urízar, Diego Atencio-Quevedo, Alfonso Urzúa, Jerome Flores and Matías Irarrázaval

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(4), 2262; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19042262 - 17 Feb 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2444

Abstract

Substance use is a risk behavior that has been associated with adverse mental health outcomes in adolescence. The aim of this study was to determine the relation between behavioral problems, emotional problems, and substance use as well as the mediating role of contextual [...] Read more.

Substance use is a risk behavior that has been associated with adverse mental health outcomes in adolescence. The aim of this study was to determine the relation between behavioral problems, emotional problems, and substance use as well as the mediating role of contextual problems and sensation seeking in this relation. A cross-sectional study of 2277 adolescents from Northern Chile was conducted. The System for the Evaluation of Children and Adolescents (SENA) was used to assess substance use, contextual problems, sensation seeking, and emotional and behavioral problems. Through a mediational model, it was observed that substance use has a positive indirect effect on emotional and behavioral problems when both contextual problems and sensation seeking act as mediating variables. An indirect effect of substance use on contextual problems with sensation seeking as a mediator was also observed. The results suggests that context and sensation seeking are a relevant source of information in understanding adolescents and their propensity to use drugs. Interventions based on addressing contextual problems (problems with school, peers, and family) and enhancing personal resources should be implemented in order to reduce substance use in adolescents as well as the consequences it can generate in the short, medium, and long term. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

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19 pages, 368 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Substance Use among Youth in Community and Residential Mental Health Care Facilities in Ontario, Canada

by Oluwakemi Olanike Aderibigbe, Shannon L. Stewart, John P. Hirdes and Christopher Perlman

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1731; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031731 - 2 Feb 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5840

Abstract

There is a need to improve the integration of substance use and mental health care for children and youth. This study examines risk and protective factors for substance use among youth with mental health conditions who received community-based or residential care services between [...] Read more.

There is a need to improve the integration of substance use and mental health care for children and youth. This study examines risk and protective factors for substance use among youth with mental health conditions who received community-based or residential care services between 2012–2020 in Ontario, Canada. In this study, a cross-sectional design was used to examine patterns and factors associated with substance use among youth (12–18 years) assessed in the community (n = 47,418) and residential (n = 700) mental health care facilities in Ontario, Canada. Youth were assessed with the interRAI Child and Youth Mental Health Assessment (ChYMH). Substance use is identified by any substance use (including alcohol) 14 to 30 days prior to assessment. Logistic regression with generalized estimating equations was used to examine clinical, psychosocial, and environmental factors associated with substance use. This study shows that 22.3% of youth reported the use of substances in the community settings and 37% in residential settings. Older age group (Youth older than 16 years), being a victim of abuse, having experienced self-injurious ideation/attempt, being at risk of disrupted education, and having a parent/caregiver with addiction or substance use disorder were significantly associated with substance use. Several factors reduced the risk of substance use, including being a female, having anxiety symptoms, and having cognition problems. In conclusion, the study found that individual and parental factors increase youth’s risk of substance use, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach that includes consideration of social and biological risk factors to prevention/risk reduction, risk assessment, management, and recovery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

16 pages, 1206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predicting Abusive Behaviours in Spanish Adolescents’ Relationships: Insights from the Reasoned Action Approach

by Ainara Nardi-Rodríguez, María Ángeles Pastor-Mira, Sofía López-Roig, Lidia Pamies-Aubalat, Fermín Martínez-Zaragoza and Victoria A. Ferrer-Pérez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1441; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031441 - 27 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1825

Abstract

(1) Background: Partner violence prevention programmes do not produce the expected behavioural changes. Accordingly, experts suggest applying evidence-based behavioural models to identify the determinants of abusive behaviours. In this research, we applied the reasoned action approach (RAA) to predict the performance (boys) and [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Partner violence prevention programmes do not produce the expected behavioural changes. Accordingly, experts suggest applying evidence-based behavioural models to identify the determinants of abusive behaviours. In this research, we applied the reasoned action approach (RAA) to predict the performance (boys) and acceptance (girls) of abusive behaviours in adolescents. (2) Method: We designed a questionnaire based on the RAA and performed a cross-sectional study. We analysed the predictive capacity of the RAA constructs on intentions with the sample of single adolescents (n = 1112). We replicated the analysis only with those who were in a relationship (n = 587) and in addition analysed the predictive capacity of intention on future behaviour (3 months later). (3) Results: The hierarchical regression analysis performed with the sample of single adolescents showed that the model explained 56% and 47% of the variance of boys’ intentions to perform the controlling and devaluing behaviours, respectively; and 62% and 33% of girls’ intention to accept them. With those in a relationship, the model explained 60% and 53% of the variance of boys’ intentions to perform the controlling and devaluating behaviour, respectively, and 70% and 38% of girls’ intention to accept them. Intention exerted direct effects on boys’ performance of controlling and devaluing behaviours (31% and 34% of explained variance, respectively) and on girls’ acceptance (30% and 7%, respectively). (4) Conclusions: The RAA seems useful to identify the motivational determinants of abusive behaviours, regardless of adolescents´ relationship status, and for their prediction. Perceived social norms emerge as a relevant predictor on which to intervene to produce behavioural changes with both sexes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

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13 pages, 959 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Shared Decision-Making Model for Adolescent Smoking Cessation: Pilot Cohort Study

by Kuan-Lun Chen, Yun-Chen Hsu, Yi-Hsuan Li, Fei-Ran Guo, Jaw-Shiun Tsai, Shao-Yi Cheng and Hsien-Liang Huang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(20), 10970; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182010970 - 19 Oct 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3256

Abstract

The control of tobacco use in adolescents is a critical public health issue that has long been studied, yet has received less attention than adult smoking cessation. Shared decision making (SDM) is a method that highlights a patient’s preference-based medical decision. This study [...] Read more.

The control of tobacco use in adolescents is a critical public health issue that has long been studied, yet has received less attention than adult smoking cessation. Shared decision making (SDM) is a method that highlights a patient’s preference-based medical decision. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a novel SDM-integrated cessation model and early intervention on the control of tobacco use in adolescents. The SDM-integrated model provides psychological support and motivational enhancement by involving the participants in making decisions and plans through the three-talk model of the SDM principle. The primary outcome shows positive effects by both increasing the cessation rate (a 25% point abstinence rate at 3 month follow up) and decreasing the number of cigarettes smoked per day (60% of the participants at 3 month follow up) among 20 senior high school participants (mean age, 17.5 years; 95% male). The results also show that the model can achieve the goal of SDM and optimal informed decision making, based on the positive SURE test and the satisfaction survey regarding the cessation model. The SDM cessation model can be further applied to different fields of adolescent substance cessation, yielding beneficial effects regarding reducing potential health hazards. The dissemination of the model may help more adolescent smokers to cease smoking worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

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14 pages, 1295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations between Longitudinal Patterns of Substance Use and Anxiety and Depression Symptoms among a Sample of Canadian Secondary School Students

by Gillian C. Williams, Karen A. Patte, Mark A. Ferro and Scott T. Leatherdale

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(19), 10468; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910468 - 5 Oct 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3354

Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine the longitudinal associations between latent classes of substance use and anxiety and depression scores among youth who use substances. This study uses data from three waves (Wave 1: 2017/18, Wave 2: 2018/19, and Wave 3: [...] Read more.

The objective of this study is to examine the longitudinal associations between latent classes of substance use and anxiety and depression scores among youth who use substances. This study uses data from three waves (Wave 1: 2017/18, Wave 2: 2018/19, and Wave 3: 2019/20) of the COMPASS study. Students in grades 9 and 10 who reported substance use at baseline (n = 738) report their substance use (alcohol, cannabis, cigarettes, and e-cigarettes) and anxiety and depression symptoms at each wave. A Repeated Measures Latent Class Analysis (RMLCA) is used to determine substance use classes, and mixed models are used to examine the associations between substance use classes and anxiety and depression. We identify three classes of substance use: (1) occasional alcohol and e-cigarette use, (2) escalating poly-substance use, and (3) consistent poly-substance use. After controlling for relevant covariates, consistent poly-substance use is associated with depression (Female OR: 1.24 [95%CI: 0.46, 2.02]; Male OR 1.13 [95%CI: 0.38, 1.87]) but not anxiety. Escalating poly-substance use is associated with depression among males (OR 0.72 [95%CI: 0.10, 1.33]). These findings should be taken into consideration when creating prevention programming and treatment strategies for adolescents. Substance use programming should be comprehensive, consider multiple substances, and be cognizant of symptoms of mental illness, particularly depression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

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11 pages, 322 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Abuse, Mental State, and Health Factors Pre and during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Comparison among Clinically Referred Adolescents in Ontario, Canada

by Shannon L. Stewart, Ashley Toohey, Angela Celebre and Jeff W. Poss

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(19), 10184; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910184 - 28 Sep 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3703

Abstract

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, population surveys revealed increased levels of anxiety and depression, while findings from large-scale population data analyses have revealed mixed findings with respect to the mental health consequences for children and youth. The purpose of this study was to examine [...] Read more.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, population surveys revealed increased levels of anxiety and depression, while findings from large-scale population data analyses have revealed mixed findings with respect to the mental health consequences for children and youth. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the well-being and health-compromising behaviors of adolescents (12–18 years) previously referred for mental health services. Data were collected (pre-pandemic n = 3712; pandemic n = 3197) from mental health agencies across Ontario, Canada using the interRAI Child and Youth Mental Health assessment. Our findings revealed no increased incidence of witnessing domestic violence nor experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. Further, there were no increases in the risk of self-harm and suicide, anxiety, or depression among our sample of clinically referred youth. Finally, results demonstrated no increase in problematic videogaming/internet use, disordered eating, or alcohol intoxication, and a decrease in cannabis use. Our findings add to the growing body of knowledge as to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and youth. Further, findings underscore the importance of understanding the nuanced impact of the pandemic on various subgroups of children, youth, and families and highlight the need for continued monitoring of outcomes for these children and youth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

14 pages, 341 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between First Sexual Intercourse and Sexual Violence Victimization, Symptoms of Depression, and Suicidal Behaviors among Adolescents in the United States: Findings from 2017 and 2019 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey

by Philip Baiden, Lisa S. Panisch, Yi Jin Kim, Catherine A. LaBrenz, Yeonwoo Kim and Henry K. Onyeaka

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(15), 7922; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18157922 - 27 Jul 2021

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4514

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between first sexual intercourse and sexual violence victimization, symptoms of depression, and suicidal ideation among sexually active adolescents in the United States. Data for this study came from the U.S. 2017 and 2019 [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between first sexual intercourse and sexual violence victimization, symptoms of depression, and suicidal ideation among sexually active adolescents in the United States. Data for this study came from the U.S. 2017 and 2019 iterations of the National Youth Risk Behavior Survey. An analytic sample of 6252 adolescents aged 14–18 years old (49.5% female) who reported ever having sexual intercourse was analyzed using Poisson regression. The outcome variables investigated in this study were sexual violence victimization, symptoms of depression, suicidal ideation, a suicide plan, and suicide attempts, and the main explanatory variables were age at first sexual intercourse and forced sexual intercourse. We also analyzed differences by gender and race. Of the 6252 adolescents who reported ever having sexual intercourse, 7.1% had their first sexual intercourse before age 13, and 14.8% experienced forced sexual intercourse. About 16% of adolescents experienced sexual violence during the past year, 42.6% reported symptoms of depression, 23.9% experienced suicidal ideation, 19.3% made a suicide plan, and 11.1% attempted suicide during the past year. In the regression analysis, early sexual intercourse was significantly and positively associated with suicidal ideation (relative risk (RR) = 1.15, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.02–1.30), suicide plan (RR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.00–1.38), and suicide attempts (RR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.15–1.61). Controlling for the effects of covariates, history of forced sexual intercourse was positively associated with the five outcomes examined with the relative risk ranging between 1.59 and 6.01. Findings of this study suggest that history of early or forced sexual intercourse is associated with poor mental health outcomes among adolescents and underscores the importance of developing interventions that offer psychological support in reducing the adverse impact of early sexual intercourse and forced sexual intercourse on adolescent health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

14 pages, 364 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Self-Reported Depressive Symptoms and Suicidality in Adolescents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Roles of Bullying Involvement, Frustration Intolerance, and Hostility

by Tai-Ling Liu, Ray C. Hsiao, Wen-Jiun Chou and Cheng-Fang Yen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(15), 7829; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18157829 - 23 Jul 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3738

Abstract

This study examined the relationships of cyberbullying and traditional bullying victimization and perpetration, perceived family function, frustration discomfort, and hostility with self-reported depressive symptoms and suicidality in adolescents diagnosed as having attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Both the self-reported severity of depressive symptoms on the [...] Read more.

This study examined the relationships of cyberbullying and traditional bullying victimization and perpetration, perceived family function, frustration discomfort, and hostility with self-reported depressive symptoms and suicidality in adolescents diagnosed as having attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Both the self-reported severity of depressive symptoms on the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale and the occurrence of suicidal ideation or a suicide attempt on the suicidality module of the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia were assessed in 195 adolescents with ADHD. The adolescents completed the Cyberbullying Experiences Questionnaire, Chinese version of the School Bullying Experience Questionnaire, Frustration–Discomfort Scale, Buss–Durkee Hostility Inventory, and Family APGAR Index. Caregivers completed the ADHD problems component of the Child Behavior Checklist for Ages 6–18. Multiple regression analyses were used to examine the correlates for each of self-reported depressive symptoms and suicidality. The results showed that after the effects of gender, age, ADHD symptoms, and family function were controlled, greater frustration discomfort and bullying perpetration significantly predicted self-reported depressive symptoms. Being cyberbullying victims and displaying hostility significantly predicted the risk of suicidality. Various types of bullying involvement, frustration intolerance, and hostility significantly predicted self-reported depressive symptoms and suicidality in adolescents with ADHD. By monitoring and intervening in these factors, we can reduce the risk of depression-related problems and suicidality in adolescents with ADHD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

10 pages, 321 KiB

Open AccessArticle

It’s the Content That Counts: Longitudinal Associations between Social Media Use, Parental Monitoring, and Alcohol Use in an Australian Sample of Adolescents Aged 13 to 16 Years

by Anna Smout, Cath Chapman, Marius Mather, Tim Slade, Maree Teesson and Nicola Newton

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(14), 7599; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18147599 - 16 Jul 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3579

Abstract

(1) Background: More time spent on social media has been linked to increased alcohol use, with exposure to peer alcohol-related content on social media (content exposure) named as a critical factor in this relationship. Little is currently known about whether early content exposure [...] Read more.

(1) Background: More time spent on social media has been linked to increased alcohol use, with exposure to peer alcohol-related content on social media (content exposure) named as a critical factor in this relationship. Little is currently known about whether early content exposure may have lasting effects across adolescent development, or about the capacity of parental monitoring of social media use to interrupt these links. (2) Methods: These gaps were addressed in both cross-sectional and longitudinal contexts among a longitudinal sample of Australian secondary school students (n = 432) across the ages of 13–16. (3) Results: Evidence was found for links between social media use and alcohol use frequency in early development. Social media time at age 13 was significantly associated with concurrent alcohol use frequency. At age 13, alcohol use frequency was significantly higher among those who reported content exposure compared to those who reported no exposure. Longitudinally, the frequency of alcohol use over time increased at a faster rate among participants who reported content exposure at age 13. In terms of parental monitoring, no longitudinal effects were observed. However, parental monitoring at age 13 did significantly reduce the concurrent relationship between alcohol use frequency and content exposure. (4) Conclusion: The impact of social media content exposure on alcohol use in adolescence may be more important than the time spent on social media, and any protective effect of parental monitoring on content exposure may be limited to the time it is being concurrently enacted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

11 pages, 329 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clustering of Lifestyle Risk Factors among Algerian Adolescents: Comparison between Urban and Rural Areas: GSHS Data

by Abdelhamid Kerkadi, Hissa Al Mannai, Dana Saad, Fatima al Zahra Yakti, Grace Attieh and Hiba Bawadi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(13), 7072; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18137072 - 2 Jul 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2275

Abstract

Objective: Compare the clustering of LBRs between urban and rural Algerian adolescents. Design: Data of this cross-sectional study was derived from the Global School-based Health Survey (GSHS). A self-administered, anonymous questionnaire was filled out by 4532 adolescents (11–16 years), which addressed LBRs of [...] Read more.

Objective: Compare the clustering of LBRs between urban and rural Algerian adolescents. Design: Data of this cross-sectional study was derived from the Global School-based Health Survey (GSHS). A self-administered, anonymous questionnaire was filled out by 4532 adolescents (11–16 years), which addressed LBRs of NCDs. Life style behavioral risk factors (LBRs) clustering was measured by the ratios of observed (O) and expected (E) prevalence of one or more simultaneously occurring LBRs for urban and rural areas separately. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to examine the association of LBRs as dependent variable with demographic variables (location, age, gender). Results: The most common LBR was physical inactivity (84.6%: 50.9% for urban and 49.1% for rural). Adolescents in urban areas had a higher prevalence of two (56.8% vs. 43.2%) and three and more (61.3% vs. 38.7%) LBRs than in rural areas. In urban areas, a significant positive association was found between (low fruit and vegetable consumption + physical inactivity) [2.06 (1.61–2.64)] and (high SB + smoking) [2.10 (1.54–2.76)], while (physical inactivity + high SB) [0.70 (0.54–0.91)] showed a significant negative association. In rural areas, (high SB + overweight/obesity) [1.49 (1.09–2.04)] had a significant positive association. While, (low fruit and vegetable consumption + high SB) [0.75 (0.60–0.94)], (physical inactivity + high SB) [0.65 (0.49–0.86)], and (physical inactivity + smoking) [0.70 (0.49–0.99)] had a negative association. Conclusions: Several socio-demographic factors have been identified to play a role in LBRs clustering among Algerian adolescents. Results of the study suggest the development of intervention aiming to tackle different LBRs rather than focusing on a single LBR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

8 pages, 306 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Internet Addiction and Application Usage among Junior High School Students: A Field Survey

by Kentaro Kawabe, Fumie Horiuchi, Rie Hosokawa, Kiwamu Nakachi and Shu-ichi Ueno

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(9), 4844; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094844 - 1 May 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4045

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the relationship between the severity of Internet addiction and various media-related applications. The participants were junior high school students between 12 and 15 years old. A total of 529 students (283 males, 246 females) were [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the relationship between the severity of Internet addiction and various media-related applications. The participants were junior high school students between 12 and 15 years old. A total of 529 students (283 males, 246 females) were included. The participants answered Young’s Internet Addiction Test (IAT) and a structural questionnaire about their access to electronic devices and applications. An Internet addiction prevalence of 4.3% (95% CI: 2.8–6.5%) was reported in this study, with an additional 26.3% (95% CI: 22.6–30.2%) of participants possibly addicted. The accessibility of gaming devices was significantly higher in male students than in female students. The use of applications for SNSs was significantly higher in female students than in male students. Twitter accessibility was a factor that contributed to Internet addiction in both genders. The prevalence of severe Internet addiction among school students in Japan was 4.3%, and Twitter was the most important factor associated with this addiction. Media literacy must be increased in adolescents and their friends, teachers, and families. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

18 pages, 11186 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Examination of Peer Victimization and Internalizing Problems through a Racial Equity Lens: Does School Connectedness Matter?

by Danielle R. Eugene, Jandel Crutchfield and Erica D. Robinson

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(3), 1085; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18031085 - 26 Jan 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4527

Abstract

Although research has given ample consideration to the association between peer victimization and internalizing problems, little is known about the mediating and moderating influences on this relationship. This study investigated whether peer victimization at age 9 indirectly related to internalizing problems at age [...] Read more.

Although research has given ample consideration to the association between peer victimization and internalizing problems, little is known about the mediating and moderating influences on this relationship. This study investigated whether peer victimization at age 9 indirectly related to internalizing problems at age 15 via school connectedness and whether the direct and indirect associations between peer victimization and internalizing problems were moderated by race. Data were drawn from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study, which included 2467 adolescents. The sample was equally divided between male and female and 82% identified as Black and Hispanic. Results indicated that the predictive effect of peer victimization over a 6-year period on teen depression and anxiety was explained by increased school connectedness. Furthermore, there was a moderating effect of race on the direct effect of school connectedness and teen depression and anxiety. For both White and ethnic minority youth, increased school connectedness was associated with less teen depression and anxiety. However, this effect was weaker for ethnic minority students in comparison to White students in both moderated mediation models. The moderated mediation results for teen anxiety showed a greater differential effect among race. The findings have important implications, which are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

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Review

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14 pages, 1211 KiB

Open AccessReview

Parental Age and the Risk of ADHD in Offspring: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Xianying Min, Chao Li and Yan Yan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(9), 4939; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094939 - 6 May 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4670

Abstract

Evidence has suggested that parental age at birth is a risk factor of offspring attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We conducted a meta-analysis of observational studies investigating the association between parental age and offspring ADHD. We conducted a systematic search that followed the recommended [...] Read more.

Evidence has suggested that parental age at birth is a risk factor of offspring attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We conducted a meta-analysis of observational studies investigating the association between parental age and offspring ADHD. We conducted a systematic search that followed the recommended guidelines for performing meta-analyses on PUBMED, EMBASE, and Web of Science up to 8 April 2021. We calculated pooled risk estimates from individual age with and without adjusting for possible confounding factors. Dose–response analysis for parental age and ADHD risk was performed. Eleven studies were selected in this meta-analysis, which included 111,101 cases and 4,417,148 participants. Compared with the reference points, the lowest parental age category was associated with an increased risk of ADHD in the offspring, with adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of 1.49 (95% confidence intervals (95%CI) 1.19–1.87) and 1.75 (95%CI 1.31–2.36) for the mother and father, respectively. The highest parental age was statistically insignificant, with adjusted ORs of 1.11 (95%CI 0.79–1.55) and 0.93 (95%CI 0.70–1.23) for mother and father separately. Dose–response analysis indicated a non-linear relationship of parental age with offspring ADHD, with the lowest ADHD risk at 31–35 years old. The results of this meta-analysis support an association between young parental age and the risk of ADHD. More high-quality studies are needed to establish whether the association with parental age is causal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

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17 pages, 474 KiB

Open AccessReview

Intervention Response to the Trauma-Exposed, Justice-Involved Female Youth: A Narrative Review of Effectiveness in Reducing Recidivism

by Ashley Thomann, Latocia Keyes, Amanda Ryan and Genevieve Graaf

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(20), 7402; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17207402 - 12 Oct 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4051

Abstract

This study aims to examine current research about trauma-exposed, justice-involved (TEJI) female youth, and evaluate the current literature regarding the effectiveness of gender-specific interventions aimed at reducing their recidivism. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) methodology was utilized to examine [...] Read more.

This study aims to examine current research about trauma-exposed, justice-involved (TEJI) female youth, and evaluate the current literature regarding the effectiveness of gender-specific interventions aimed at reducing their recidivism. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) methodology was utilized to examine quantitative and qualitative literature, published from 2000 through March 2020, about interventions for female justice-involved youth with trauma exposure. Analysis of selected studies utilized an integrated framework based on Andrew’s Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) model and Lipsey’s factors of effectiveness, which reviewed studies showing the relationship between female justice-involved youth with mental health symptomologies and trauma. The findings show that effective intervention for this population targets the youth’s negative internal mechanisms related to trauma-subsequent psychosocial problems. These studies suggest that trauma-sensitive modalities have the potential to mitigate the further risk of problematic external behaviors. All studies had limited sample sizes, low follow-up rates, and unknown long-term outcomes. Future research should explore dimensions of sustainability and achieving stability in relation to intervention setting. Selecting the proper venue and facilitator for quality implementation and stability of setting is critical in delivering effective therapies. Modifications in public expectations of juvenile justice policy and practice, from disciplinary to therapeutic approaches, is needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors and Mental Health)

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