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Persistence of psychological problems in adolescence: a one year follow-up study

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 June 2014

Deborah James ,
Maria Lawlor  and
Nick Sofroniou
Deborah James
Affiliation:
Regional Child and Family Centre, Dublin Road, Drogheda, Co Louth, Ireland
Maria Lawlor
Affiliation:
Regional Child and Family Centre, Dublin Road, Drogheda, Co Louth, Ireland
Nick Sofroniou
Affiliation:
Educational Research Centre, St Patrick's College, Drumcondra, Dublin 9, Ireland
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Abstract

Objectives: To examine the prevalence and persistence of psychological problems in older adolescents.

Methods: This study is a one year follow-up of 110 adolescents, 64 girls and 46 boys attending three secondary schools in Ireland. All were 16 at initial testing. The Youth Self Report (YSR) was the measure used.

Results: Over a fifth of adolescents have problems in the clinical range. These problems persisted from 16 to 17. Females reported more problems than males at both ages. Some females showed a slight reduction in internalising problems at 17. Both males and females showed an increase in externalising problems at 17. Odds ratios indicate that those in the clinical ranges of the YSR at 16, had increased risk of being in the clinical range at 17 compared to those in the no problem range at 16. In comparison to those with no suicidal feeling, those with suicidal feelings at 16 were at an increased risk of still feeling suicidal at 17. More males remained psychologically healthy than girls.

Conclusions: A large proportion of adolescents in this sample have psychological problems and these appear to persist over a one year period. These problems impact substantially on the adolescents themselves, their families and society. Given the increasing suicide rate in young people and the persistence of suicidal feelings in this cohort, the inadequacy of mental health services in Ireland for adolescents, particularly those ages 16-18 is highlighted. The challenge of developing and providing adolescent friendly services is addressed.

Keywords

AdolescentsPsychological problemsPersistencePrevalenceMental health services
Type
Original Papers
Information
Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine , Volume 21 , Issue 1 , March 2004 , pp. 11 - 17
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2004

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