Articles tagged with Adolescents
A study of frequent marijuana users found that negative emotions increased in the days leading up to use and didn't improve with cannabis. The research suggests that this can create a vicious cycle where people continue to use the drug despite feeling worse afterward.
A meta-analysis of 58 studies found that adolescents' perceptions of peers' sexual activity, approval, and pressure are associated with their own sexual behavior. The study suggests that role modeling by peers is the most influential factor, while peer pressure has a smaller effect.
A University of Iowa study found that teenagers' brains are more sensitive to immediate rewards, leading to impulsive behavior. The researchers suggest limiting distractions to help teens develop impulse-control skills.
Researchers at Oregon Research Institute found that watching junk food ads can activate reward regions in the brain of adolescents, leading to increased risk of weight gain. This study suggests that individual differences in neural vulnerability may identify youth at risk for excess weight gain.
Researchers found that teenage girls who skipped school or failed tests were more likely to engage in vaginal sex and less likely to use condoms. The study also showed a link between academic events and emotional experiences in romantic relationships.
A UT Arlington study found that teens living with two college-educated parents are significantly less likely to drink alcohol or smoke marijuana. The presence of both parents is a strong protective factor for African-American adolescents, with white teenagers being 69% more likely to engage in substance abuse than black peers.
The SUNY Research Foundation has been awarded a five-year, $8.2 million grant to support the Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center (DEARC) at Binghamton University. The center will focus on understanding the effects of prenatal and adolescent alcohol exposure on brain development.
A nationwide Danish register study found that psychiatrically ill youth exposed to antipsychotic medications had a significantly higher risk of developing type II diabetes compared to those not exposed. Regular cardiometabolic monitoring should be integral part of antipsychotic prescribing in children and adolescents.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that 40% of cannabis-using adolescents experienced withdrawal symptoms, despite widespread perception of cannabis as nonaddictive. The presence or absence of withdrawal did not affect long-term treatment outcomes.
A study of over 18,000 students found that frequent family dinners were associated with lower rates of mental health problems in teenagers, particularly those who experienced cyberbullying. The research suggests that family dinners can provide a protective buffer against the negative effects of cyberbullying.
A McGill study found that family meals can reduce the negative impacts of online bullying on adolescent mental health. Cyberbullying victimization was linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and substance use among adolescents with fewer family dinners.
The study found that obese boys had a nearly six-fold increased risk of hypertension compared to normal weight boys, while obese girls had a more than four-fold greater risk. General and abdominal adiposity are already significantly associated with prehypertension and hypertension in children and adolescents.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine suggests that a one cent per ounce excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, combined with physical activity programs and an advertising ban, could effectively reduce childhood obesity. The tax is expected to generate significant revenue for additional obesity prevention a...
A study examining body mass index (BMI) in children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) found elevated rates of excess weight and obesity in those with partial fetal alcohol syndrome. Females were at a greater risk for obesity/overweight than males during adolescence.
Researchers found that teenagers who got less than six hours of sleep per night had a 20% higher risk of being obese by age 21. This study provides the strongest evidence yet that lack of sleep raises risk for an elevated BMI, and emphasizes the importance of getting more than eight hours of sleep per night.
Adolescents with parents who spend more time at home tend to have better eating behaviors and exercise habits. Parents' availability can also play a crucial role in shaping their children's health, with fathers' presence being particularly important.
Physical neglect during childhood is a stronger predictor of male adolescent violence than physical abuse, according to Penn State researchers. The study suggests that understanding neglect's role in influencing violent behavior can lead to better education and care for at-risk youths.
A new study from Duke University found that mass layoffs can trigger increased suicide attempts and behaviors among teenagers, particularly girls and black adolescents. The research, based on a nationally representative survey of 403,457 adolescents, suggests that economic hardship worsens existing tendencies in girls.
Researchers identified three key neurocognitive dimensions: impulsive action, impulsive choice, and reward sensitivity. These dimensions are linked to externalizing problems and can be targeted in interventions. The study suggests prevention and intervention approaches targeting these deficits have potential to impact clinical outcomes.
A Michigan State University study suggests that adolescents who are more fearful of crime are less likely to become victims and offenders of violent acts. The research found that fearful youth tend to avoid potentially dangerous situations, leading to safer outcomes.
Frequent marijuana use can lead to poor attention, memory, and decreased IQ in teenagers and young adults. Brain imaging studies have shown significant changes in brain structure among adolescents who increased their marijuana use.
Research suggests that physically fit sixth-grade girls are less likely to report feeling depressed when they reach seventh grade. Fitness programs can help prevent depression in middle-schoolers, but schools should also use other interventions like therapy.
A recent study found that adolescents with aggressive behavior are more prone to drinking alcohol, while depression and anxiety do not increase the risk of alcohol use. The study also linked smoking, attention problems, early menarche, and parental divorce to increased alcohol consumption.
A nationwide study involving over 5,000 teenagers found that playing mature-rated video games associated with increased deviant behaviors, including alcohol use and smoking cigarettes. The researchers suggest changes in personality, attitudes, and values contribute to the findings.
Adolescents with high sympathetic nervous system reactivity develop higher PTSD symptoms regardless of media coverage. Lower sympathetic reactivity before a traumatic event is associated with only post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms following high media exposure.
University of York scientists have discovered a novel metabolic pathway in Neisseria meningitidis that explains why this age group is particularly at risk of infection. The bacteria can supplement its growth via metabolism of propionic acid, generated by anaerobic bacteria becoming more prevalent in adolescents.
Research conducted on adolescent rats reveals that daily consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages can impair learning and memory functions. The study found significant inflammation in the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for memory, suggesting potential long-term effects on cognitive function.
A new study by University of Chicago Booth School of Business researchers found that campers who formed close relationships with members from the opposing side developed more positive feelings toward all members of that group. This effect was found to last long after returning home, even months later.
A study published in The Journal of Pediatrics found that preterm children's cognitive abilities as teenagers can be comparable to those born at term, if they experience no brain injury early on. The quality of the home environment plays a crucial role in brain development and cognition.
A new study by Aarhus University reveals that one in three young people experience knee pain between the ages of 12 and 19. The pain often persists even after two years, with 55% of adolescents with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome still suffering from knee pain after two years.
A study found that an electronic screening tool can effectively assess teenagers' substance use and identify those at risk. The tool, which asks only one question, shows high sensitivity and specificity in identifying substance use disorders.
A meta-analysis of 49 studies found that community service with reflection has a substantial, beneficial effect on adolescents' academic, personal, social, and civic development. Structured reflection is crucial to the overall impact of community service.
A Tel Aviv University study found Israeli youths exposed to terrorism and conflict suffer higher levels of anxiety, phobia, and depression than their US counterparts. Girls are particularly vulnerable, with more severe psychiatric pathologies reported than boys.
A new study advocates for investing in the sexual and reproductive health of 10 to 14 year olds, a critical period of transition from childhood to adulthood. Researchers recommend tailored programs to meet their unique needs, including parental and guardian involvement, and preventive services to prevent misinformation and promote heal...
A study of Finnish twins found that adolescent drinking problems were strongly associated with adverse outcomes in early adulthood, including substance abuse, poor health, and relationship problems. The researchers controlled for genetic and environmental factors to isolate the causal effect of adolescent drinking on adult outcomes.
Researchers found that adolescents who showed a higher reaction in their amygdala while viewing negative images were more likely to develop PTSD symptoms after the Boston Marathon bombing. The study's findings suggest that brain activity before a traumatic event can predict a person's response to it.
Researchers found that adolescent males desire intimate and caring relationships, expressing vulnerability and dependence, and placing great importance on trust. The study provides a nuanced understanding of adolescent males' early relationships, which contrasts with traditional portrayals of younger male behavior.
Researchers found that levels of severity and functional impairment among children with ADHD under 7 were comparable to those with other mental disorders. The study highlights the importance of systematic study of diagnostic criteria in representative samples.
Researchers found that soluble corn fibre increased beneficial gut bacteria and calcium absorption in adolescents, potentially leading to improved bone density. Moderate daily intake of SCF may contribute to reduced risk of bone fracture later in life.
A new study identifies four fundamental tenets to creating fun in youth sports and 11 specific fun factors. Being a good sport was found to be the top factor, followed by trying hard and positive coaching.
A study by the University of Granada found that teenagers in Spain, Italy, and Greece have lower cardiorespiratory capacity, strength, and speed-agility than their northern European peers. The researchers also discovered higher levels of total and abdominal fat among southern adolescents, which may be linked to reduced physical activity.
According to a recent study by NYU researchers, nearly 1 in 5 high school seniors use hookah. Hookah use is more common among students from higher socioeconomic backgrounds and those living in cities. Researchers caution that the increasing popularity of hookah pens may normalize their use, leading to potential health consequences.
A European teen imaging study has identified 40 predictor variables, including genetics, brain function, and personality, that can predict teenage binge-drinking with 70% accuracy. The study found that having a family history of drug use, sensation-seeking traits, and impulsivity were among the key predictors.
A study found that one in six adolescents who visited the emergency department experienced dating violence. Factors associated with dating violence included African-American race, alcohol misuse, and depression. The study highlights the need for screening and intervention among youth to prevent future adult intimate partner violence.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that young teens who received sexts were six times more likely to report being sexually active. Young teens who send over 100 texts a day also showed increased likelihood of sexual activity.
The new Review from the Countdown to 2015 collaboration summarizes results from the 2014 report, highlighting progress and challenges in women's and children's health. The study emphasizes the need for continued action to achieve the global targets of improving survival rates and reducing disparities in health outcomes.
A nationwide study found a small but statistically significant cardiovascular risk associated with stimulant treatment in children with ADHD. The researchers also reported on the relationship between specific stimulant dose and risk of a cardiovascular event.
An evidence-based behavioral intervention appears to increase supervised practice for teen drivers, leading to improved safety outcomes. The study found that for every 11 teenagers who use the Teen Driving Plan (TDP), one additional teenager would be prevented from failing the tODA assessment.
A new study found that cardiorespiratory capacity and motor ability are strongly related to academic performance, with motor ability being the most important factor. The study suggests that promoting physical activities that enhance these abilities can improve academic development and reduce the risk of school failure.
Two studies found that adolescents' brains respond to glucose with increased blood flow in reward-motivation regions, unlike adults. Additionally, obese children as young as six years old develop larger and more dysfunctional fat cells, leading to inflammation and insulin resistance.
A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology shows that brief bouts of exercise can significantly improve attention and reading comprehension in low-income adolescents. This finding has important implications for schools serving low-income populations, suggesting they should incorporate physical activity into their daily schedules.
A decade-long study found that teens who acted cool in early adolescence were more likely to experience problems in early adulthood, including substance abuse and criminal activity. By age 22, these teens were rated as less competent in social relationships and had engaged in more serious behaviors.
A new study published in Frontiers in Neurology found that eight-session gist-reasoning training can significantly improve higher-order thinking and other key frontal lobe functions in chronic recovery stages. Participants showed improved abstraction of meanings, executive functions, and memory for facts.
Adolescents are more influential in getting friends to start smoking than helping them quit. Nonsmoking friends lack resources to aid quitting efforts, making self-quitting methods less successful.
A study of adolescent friendship networks and smoking use over time found that friends exert influence on both starting and quitting smoking, but the influence to start is stronger. Nonsmoking friends are unlikely to provide resources needed to help their smoking peers quit, making peer pressure a significant barrier to cessation.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that US school psychologists help adolescents with mental disorders navigate the healthcare system, but specialist access remains limited. The research suggests that collaboration between school psychologists, psychotherapists, and doctors could improve care for these adolescents.
Studies indicate that bullies, victims, and bully-victims are more likely to carry weapons. The study found stronger associations between being a bully-victim and weapon-carrying in US studies compared to other countries.
A recent study by San Francisco State University's Jeff Cookston found that adolescents receiving a reason for their father's behavior or a better understanding of who is at fault feel better about themselves and dad. This, in turn, is linked to a lower risk of depression for youth.
Research highlights dangers of elderly gun ownership due to dementia, depression, and suicide risks. Proposed '5 L's' questions aim to identify guns in homes with vulnerable individuals.
Global obesity rates have increased substantially over the last three decades, with nearly 30% of the world's population affected. The study found that children and adolescents are particularly at risk, with rates increasing by nearly 50% between 1980 and 2013.