Concerningly many children, adolescents and young adults who develop
mental health problems. More are at risk among those who grow up in
low-income families or whose parents have lower education, which is often
referred to as social inequalities in mental health.
Material factors, psychosocial conditions and behavioral patterns in
childhood lay foundations for health, living conditions and community
participation later in life. Some children and adolescents may be vulnerable
to transitions and life events, such as switching schools, moving away from
home, or divorce. For some, such incidents result in loss of social support
and networks and fewer financial resources. Some also develop behavioral
patterns that may pose a health risk. In this way, transitions and life events
can help to reinforce social inequalities in health.
The aim of the project is to increase our understanding of social inequalities
in mental health in a life-course perspective. We will map social trends
in mental health among adolescents with different socio-economic
backgrounds, and explore the role of factors such as social support, family
structure, gender, and major life events and transitions in these contexts.
We also want to develop more precise methods for measuring youth
socio-economic status.
To reach these goals, we use data from four studies of Norwegian youth
and their parents, conducted during the period from 1980-2020. The studies
allow us to follow the participants' development from childhood into higher
education and working life, and examine how social backgrounds are linked
to mental health in different time periods.
In the project, researchers and doctoral fellows collaborate to investigate
parts of the main problem. The project manager coordinates the sub-projects
and reporting the findings. We will disseminate widely, in scientific
publications and presentations, but also in social media and through an
electronic report that will be published during the project period.