Why do teens feel they lack emotional support?

Understanding the Support Gap

According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adolescents are significantly less likely than their parents to feel they receive adequate emotional and social support. The report indicates that less than 30 percent of young people surveyed stated they always have the support they need.

Survey Insights

The analysis, based on data from the National Health Interview Survey, involved nearly 1,200 adolescents aged 12-17 and about 4,400 parents, conducted between July 2021 and December 2022. When asked about their support, only 27.5 percent of teens reported receiving it ‘always,’ while 31 percent said ‘usually.’ In contrast, a staggering 76.9 percent of parents believed their children always had the necessary support.

Possible Reasons for the Disconnect

This discrepancy may arise from various factors, including differences in survey interpretation, parents’ reluctance to provide negative feedback, or differing definitions of what constitutes social and emotional support.

Demographic Variations

Interestingly, the survey revealed that boys generally reported higher levels of perceived support. Furthermore, younger teens (under 15) were more likely to feel supported compared to their older peers. Racial disparities were also evident, with Black and Hispanic teens reporting less support than their White counterparts. Additionally, sexual and gender-minority teens indicated lower levels of support.

Impact of Support on Well-being

Teens who felt adequately supported were found to have fewer health issues, lower rates of depression, and better sleep quality compared to those who felt unsupported. This highlights the critical role that emotional and social support plays in adolescent health.

Future Research Directions

The researchers emphasize the need for ongoing studies to explore the quality and types of support available to teens, aiming to bridge the gap between perception and reality.

FAQs

Q: What can parents do to better support their teens?
A: Open communication and understanding their needs can help bridge the support gap.

Q: How can teens express their need for support?
A: Encouraging teens to talk about their feelings and experiences can foster a supportive environment.