Being in the 'no': questions influence what we remember
A new study found that people's 'no' responses can reveal hidden memories, suggesting everything we see may make its way into our memory
Adolescents
Research on teenage health, behavior, and development. Covers vaping and smoking, youth mental health, social media, and emergency-care trends.
Spring flings may explain teen pregnancies peak
Researchers found a higher likelihood of conception in March among school-aged adolescents compared to adults. The study suggests that biological factors and increased access to contraception during Spring Break may contribute to this phenomenon.
Helicopter parents can impede child’s ability to play
A new North Carolina State University study found that helicopter parents can impede children's ability to engage in higher levels of physical activity. Researchers suggest that designing public parks with comfortable areas for parents to observe from a distance may reduce hovering and increase spontaneous play.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 7, 2011
Songs about sex – how they affect kids
Researchers analyzed Billboard Hot 100 song lyrics from 1959 to 2009, finding a significant increase in sexually explicit references over time. The study suggests degrading music can negatively impact teens' self-worth and lead to poor body image, depression, and substance abuse.
Protecting adolescent girls from unwanted unprotected sex
A new study found that 46% of African-American adolescent girls report unprotected sex due to partner abuse, highlighting the relationship between HIV and partner abuse. Developing clinic-centered interventions can inform more tailored prevention methods to address condom coercion and silence in relationships.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalAdvances in Nursing Science·DateSep 6, 2011
The emotional brain in youth
Bipolar disorder affects 3% of the general population, with significant functional limitations and high rates of psychiatric hospitalization in children and adolescents. The diagnostic criteria for bipolar I disorder in adolescents include mania, euphoria, and irritability, while mixed episodes are common in this age group.
Pharmacists need to provide better information to teenagers on risks and benefits of medicines
Teenagers frequently take medications without targeted information about risks and benefits. Pharmacists need to enhance communication to address anxiety, confusion, and misconceptions. Effective communication can also promote family well-being in vulnerable populations.
Living with parents in adult life can prolong family conflict
Researchers found that domestic disputes increase when young adults continue to live at home with their parents. This 'full nest syndrome' affects emerging adults (18-25) and leads to conflicts related to personal values and social expectations.
Increased prevalence of stroke hospitalizations seen in teens and young adults
A 14-year study found a significant increase in ischemic stroke hospitalizations among adolescents and young adults, with nearly one-third of patients aged 15-34 years also diagnosed with hypertension. The study highlights the need for public health initiatives to reduce risk factors for stroke among this age group.
Ability to remember memories' origin not fully developed in youths
Researchers found that children's ability to remember memories' origin is immature and develops gradually during adolescence. Brain maturity in this area continues until adulthood, influencing the reliability of child testaments. The study suggests that adolescents' memories can be distorted by distracting information.
Mother-son ties change over time, influence teen boys' behavior, Wayne State study finds
A Wayne State University-led study found that mother-son relationships with high conflict and low warmth during childhood can lead to delinquent behavior in adolescence. Conversely, close relationships between mothers and sons are linked to better peer relationships.
SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalChild Development·DateAug 30, 2011
Mother-son ties change over time, influence teen boys' behavior
A longitudinal study of low-income families found that mother-son relationships change over time, affecting boys' behavior in adolescence. Mothers with good relationships and fewer conflicts had sons with lower delinquent behavior and stronger friendships.
School-based mental health screening for teens results in connection to care
A new study found that school-based mental health screening for teens can effectively identify adolescents at risk and connect them with follow-up care. The screening, provided by TeenScreen, identified nearly three-quarters of high school students at risk who weren't receiving treatment.
SourceTeenScreen National Center for Mental Health Checkups at Columbia University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateAug 25, 2011
Undernutrition in childhood, adolescence or young adulthood increases risk of heart disease later
A study of women who experienced undernutrition during the Dutch famine found that it was associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease later in life. The research suggests that childhood and adolescent undernutrition can have a lasting impact on future health.
Males believe discussing problems is a waste of time, MU study shows
A new University of Missouri study reveals that boys perceive discussing problems as not beneficial for their emotional well-being. The research suggests that parents should encourage their children to adopt a middle ground when discussing problems, and help them see some utility in talking about issues.
Happiness can deter crime, a new study finds
A new University of California-Davis study found that happier adolescents report less involvement in crime and drug use. The research suggests that programs increasing childhood happiness may have a notable effect on deterring nonviolent crime.
Study: Only 1 in 5 Medicaid-covered kids in Ohio finish antidepressant treatment
A study found that only 20.6% of Medicaid-covered children and adolescents in Ohio complete the recommended six-month course of antidepressants, highlighting gaps in mental health care for vulnerable populations. Optimal follow-up visits and adequate dosing were associated with better adherence rates.
Happiness can deter crime, a new study finds
A new UC Davis study suggests that happier adolescents are less likely to get involved in crime or drug use. The researchers found a significant correlation between emotional well-being and reduced involvement in nonviolent crimes.
Persistent, microscopic blood in urine associated with increased risk of kidney disease
Researchers found that adolescents and young adults with persistent, microscopic blood in their urine had a higher risk of developing end-stage renal disease over a 20-year follow-up period. The study included data from 1,203,626 individuals and revealed a significantly increased risk of ESRD associated with the condition.
Pre-pregnancy overweight may program teen asthma symptoms
Research published in Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found a significant association between pre-pregnancy obesity and asthma-like respiratory symptoms in adolescents. Teenagers whose mothers were severely overweight before pregnancy were 20-30% more likely to wheeze or have asthma.
Telephone trumps social media when communicating with teens about research
A study of 188 teenagers in rural Georgia counties found that nearly 54% preferred receiving contact via phone with a recorded message from a known researcher. This approach proved more efficient and effective than text messaging or social media platforms like Facebook.
Who takes risks?
Researchers found that men are willing to take more financial risks, while women take more social risks, such as starting a new career or addressing an unpopular issue. Adolescents can be just as cautious and careful as adults when thinking calmly about a situation.
Children and adolescent mobile phone users at no greater risk of brain cancer than non-users
A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that children and adolescent mobile phone users are not at a statistically significant increased risk of brain cancer compared to non-users. The study included data from over 352 brain cancer patients and 646 control subjects, and found no clear exposure-res...
SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 27, 2011
Who takes risks?
New research suggests that women and men perceive risks differently, with women taking more social risks and men taking more financial risks. This difference is partly due to differences in how familiar individuals are with different situations.
SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJul 27, 2011
Rate of chronic health problems for low-birth-weight children does not increase in adolescence
A study of extremely low-birth-weight children found no increase in chronic health conditions and asthma between ages 8 and 14. However, obesity rates among these children increased during this period.
Adolescent boys among those most affected by Washington state parental military deployment
A new University of Washington study reveals that parental military deployment is associated with impaired well-being among adolescents, especially adolescent boys. The research highlights the need for targeted support programs to mitigate the negative effects of parental deployments on children.
Painful legacy of teen sports
Research reveals abnormal femur development in young athletes due to high-intensity sports, leading to osteoarthritis and hip deformity. Athletes are ten times more likely to experience impaired hip function than non-athletes.
Positive teens become healthier adults
A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that teenagers with high positive well-being had reduced risk of engaging in unhealthy behaviors and reported excellent health in young adulthood. Positive psychological characteristics during adolescence are linked to improved long-term health outcomes.
Exposure to secondhand smoke associated with hearing loss in adolescents
A recent study found that adolescents exposed to secondhand smoke are at a higher risk of hearing loss, with over 80% of participants unaware they had impairment. The study suggests that SHS could be considered a risk factor for hearing loss, highlighting the need for close monitoring and education among exposed adolescents.
Another danger of secondhand smoke -- hearing loss
A new study published by NYU School of Medicine researchers has found that exposure to secondhand smoke nearly doubles the risk of hearing loss among adolescents. The study found that teenagers exposed to smoke performed worse across every sound frequency tested, especially mid-to-high frequencies important for understanding speech.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJul 18, 2011
Adolescent binge drinking can damage spatial working memory
A new study found that female teens who binge drink have less brain activation and worse performance on attention and working memory tasks. Male binge drinkers showed some but less abnormality compared to non-drinkers. The findings suggest that adolescent girls may be more vulnerable to the negative effects of heavy alcohol use.
No difference in women's and men's self-esteem in youth and early adulthood, study finds
A recent study published by the American Psychological Association found no significant difference between men's and women's self-esteem during adolescence and young adulthood. Masterly control over life was a strong predictor of self-esteem in both sexes.
SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJul 14, 2011
Structural factors integral to understanding girls' vulnerability to HIV in sub-Saharan Africa
A new study led by Johns Hopkins researchers found that community members link adolescent girls' increased HIV vulnerability to weak structural support systems. The study's findings highlight the need for policies and interventions to strengthen cultural, economic, educational, and legal structures to protect girls.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateJul 13, 2011
Higher Medicaid payments to dentists associated with increased rate of dental care among children
A study published in JAMA Network found that states with higher Medicaid payment levels to dentists between 2000 and 2008 were more likely to provide dental care to their children. The study showed a positive association between state Medicaid dental payment fees and the use of dental care among children covered by Medicaid.
Caffeine promotes drink flavor preference in adolescents
Research reveals that teenagers develop a taste for caffeinated, sugar-sweetened beverages due to repeated exposure. Caffeine addition leads to increased liking of carbonated drinks.
Accentuating the positive may eliminate the negative in teenagers with anxiety
Researchers from Oxford University found that training tasks can shift how healthy teenagers think about social events, promoting more positive interpretations. The approach, called cognitive bias modification of interpretations, has the potential to change negative thoughts that drive anxiety in teenagers with high anxiety levels.
Family meals remain important through teen years, expert says
Regular family meals can safeguard teens' health, reducing the risk of disordered eating by 35% and promoting healthy habits. Family members should prioritize three meals a week to foster connection and encourage open conversations about unhealthy behaviors.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 12, 2011
Study examines trends in withholding treatment for infants in neonatal intensive care units
A study found that neonatal deaths in intensive care units increased when life-sustaining treatments were withheld, while CPR use decreased over time. The trend suggests improved recognition of medical futility and a desire for peaceful death among parents.
In homes with substantiated child abuse reports, study identifies groups at higher risk for reabuse
A study found that children who remain in the home after a report of abuse are at increased risk of further abuse if they have certain characteristics, such as behavior problems and developmental disabilities. The study identified groupings of characteristics that increase or decrease the likelihood of reabuse.
Diabetes drug may prevent or delay development of polycystic ovary syndrome
A recent study found that early treatment with the diabetes drug metformin may prevent or delay the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in adolescents. The study, which compared early versus late metformin treatment, showed that early therapy prevented PCOS symptoms more effectively than late treatment.
SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 29, 2011
Leverhulme Trust award Leicester academic funding to study anti-apartheid protest
A University of Leicester geography lecturer will investigate transnational solidarity activism with a Leverhulme Trust award. The project aims to provoke debate about the value of this type of activism in understanding and informing current and future movements.
New study shows children and adolescents who eat candy are less overweight or obese
A new study published in Food & Nutrition Research found that children and adolescents who consume candy tend to weigh less than their non-consuming counterparts. The study suggests that candy consumption is associated with lower rates of overweight and obesity, but it's crucial to balance this with nutrient-dense foods.
2 talks with teens leads to less marijuana use for at least a year
Researchers found that a brief conversation with an adult led to significant reductions in marijuana use among teenagers who frequently used the drug. The program, called Teen Marijuana Check-Up, was shown to decrease usage by up to 20% over a year, setting a promising model for schools and counselors.
Study: Most parents unaware of teen workplace risks
A new study highlights the importance of parental involvement in helping teenagers understand and prepare for workplace risks. The research found that most parents are unaware of the hazards their teens face on the job, but can play a critical role in ensuring good safety standards by asking the right questions.
Adolescents' dieting and disordered eating behaviors continue into young adulthood
A 10-year longitudinal study found that adolescents who dieted in early adolescence were at increased risk of continuing these behaviors in young adulthood. The study's findings emphasize the importance of addressing disordered eating behaviors from an early age to prevent obesity and related health issues.
Pitt study: Gay, lesbian, bisexual youth bullied, abused more often than peers
A study by the University of Pittsburgh found that gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth experience higher rates of bullying, abuse, and missing school due to fear. They are also more likely to suffer from psychological problems, substance abuse, and other issues.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 22, 2011
Anti-smoking policies for adults also reduce kids' smoking
A study published in Addiction journal found that comprehensive anti-smoking policies in Australia, particularly those targeting adults, also reduced smoking rates among adolescents. The key to this effect lies in the sustained and well-funded nature of these programs, which directly influence young people's perceptions of smoking.
Look before you leap: Teens still learning to plan ahead
A new study by Temple University researchers found that teens still struggle to plan ahead, leading to riskier decisions. The study tested 890 individuals between 10-30 years old and showed improvements in impulse control with age, allowing for better problem-solving skills.
Postnatal depression linked to depression in offspring until age 16
A recent study by Lynne Murray and colleagues found that postnatal depression in mothers is associated with a substantially increased risk of depression in their children until age 16. The researchers also discovered that infant attachment issues and lower child ego resilience are linked to the development of depression.
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJun 16, 2011
Teens look to parents more than friends for sexual role models
A national online study found that 45% of teens consider their parents as their primary sexuality role model, while only 32% look to friends and 15% to celebrities. The survey also revealed that teenagers from families with open discussions about sex have a greater awareness of the risks of STIs.
Screening helps African-American students connect with school-based mental health services
African-American middle school students are more likely to consent to mental health screening and access school-based services. The study found that 71.7% of African-American students referred for screening accessed recommended services, compared to 76.2% of white students.
SourceTeenScreen National Center for Mental Health Checkups at Columbia University·JournalCommunity Mental Health Journal·DateJun 14, 2011
White adolescent girls may be losing sleep from the pressure to be thin
A recent study suggests that pressure to have a thin body may lead to sleep deprivation among white adolescent girls. The pressure from girlfriends and media was found to be significantly predictive of sleep duration for these girls, with the strongest predictor being pressure from girlfriends.
Study examines link between teen sex and divorce rate
A University of Iowa study found that women who make their sexual debut as young teens are more likely to divorce, especially if the experience was unwanted or had mixed feelings. This link holds even for those who delay sex until adulthood.
Preteens surrounded by smokers get hooked on nicotine
A new study from Concordia University and the University of Montreal found that preteens surrounded by smokers are more likely to develop symptoms of nicotine dependence. The study, which surveyed 327 sixth or seventh graders, also found that tweens who observe smoking in others are more likely to start smoking themselves.
Fathers still matter to kids who have moved out
Research led by BYU professor Larry Nelson shows that certain types of dads remain a positive influence on children who have moved out of the house. Dads who use authoritative parenting approach enjoy closer relationships with their children and see improved kindness and self-worth.
Teen brain data may predict pop song success, Emory study finds
An Emory University study suggests that the brain activity of teens, recorded while listening to new songs, can predict their popularity. The study found a statistically significant correlation between brain responses and song sales figures.
Gender differences in risk pathways for adolescent substance abuse and early adult alcoholism
Girls with ADHD symptoms are more predictive of adverse substance use outcomes, including alcohol abuse and dependence. Parents' reports of inattentiveness in daughters at age 11-12 can predict illicit drug use across adolescence.
BUSM study finds higher adherence to dash-style diet reduces excess weight gain in adolescent girls
A Boston University School of Medicine study found that higher adherence to the DASH diet reduced excess weight gain in adolescent girls over a 10-year period. The study, which examined a racially diverse sample of girls aged nine and 10, discovered that those with the highest intake of DASH-like food groups had smaller gains in BMI.
SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJun 6, 2011
International study reveals mental disorders are leading cause of disability in young people worldwide
A comprehensive global study found that neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia, account for 45% of the disease burden among young people aged 10-24 years. The study highlights the need to focus on prevention programs and health promotion against non-communicable and non-fatal causes of disease in adolescence.
Adherence to certain dietary pattern associated with lower BMI in adolescent girls
A study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that adolescent girls who followed a DASH-style diet had smaller gains in overall body mass index (BMI) over 10 years compared to those on other diets. Higher consumption of fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products was associated with less weight gain.