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Passiflora Incarnata L. Herba: Treatment for Insomnia and Anxiety in Eating Disorders During Developmental Age
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Intervention Program for Prevention of Gender Violence in Adolescents
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Anti-Bullying Interventions for Occupational Therapy
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Risk Factors for Teen Dating Violence Among Sexual and Gender Minority Youths: A Systematic Review
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Mental Health Challenges of Young People with ADHD Symptoms: Teachers’ Perspectives and Strategies
Journal Description
Adolescents
Adolescents
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on adolescent development and health sciences published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within ESCI (Web of Science), Scopus and other databases.
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q2 (Health Professions (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 32 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 6.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2025).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Journal Cluster of Education and Psychology: Adolescents, Behavioral Sciences, Education Sciences, Journal of Intelligence, Psychology International and Youth.
Impact Factor:
0.8 (2024);
5-Year Impact Factor:
1.0 (2024)
Latest Articles
Evidence for Cannabidiol as a Medication for the Treatment of Neurological, Psychiatric, Behavioral and Substance Use Disorders in Adolescents
Adolescents 2025, 5(4), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5040054 - 30 Sep 2025
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical produced by the cannabis plant that acts as an allosteric modulator of cannabinoid receptors resulting in non-competitive receptor antagonism in the central nervous system. This mechanism of action leads to anti-convulsant, anti-anxiety, and analgesic properties with minimal psycho-activity,
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Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical produced by the cannabis plant that acts as an allosteric modulator of cannabinoid receptors resulting in non-competitive receptor antagonism in the central nervous system. This mechanism of action leads to anti-convulsant, anti-anxiety, and analgesic properties with minimal psycho-activity, which has led to significant interest in the use of CBD as a medication. Legislation around cannabis has changed in recent years, with many states permitting the use of CBD-based products as “medication” without approval from the Federal Drug Administration. This has led to a proliferation of products with associated marketing claims that are often unsubstantiated. This review summarizes the evidence for cannabidiol as a medical treatment, focusing on epilepsy, mental health, behavioral and substance use disorders occurring in pediatric and adolescent populations for which information is available. CBD preparations have been approved by the FDA to treat epilepsy in childhood; no other indications currently exist, and the literature remains inconclusive. Few adverse effects related to CBD use have been reported. However, endogenous cannabinoids play an important role in guiding brain development, and the long-term impact of modulating the endocannabinoid system during periods of brain growth during childhood and adolescence is unknown. While there is excitement about the potential for the development of CBD medications, currently, there is very limited information about the long-term safety of CBD, especially in children and adolescents, and caution is recommended regarding the use of unregulated, unapproved CBD preparations that are currently available over the counter.
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Open AccessArticle
Perceptions and Responses of Adolescents and Youth in the Spanish Protection System to Bullying and Gender-Based Bullying Situations, and Their Relationship with the Training Received
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María Victoria Carrera-Fernández, Deibe Fernández-Simo and Nazaret Blanco-Pardo
Adolescents 2025, 5(4), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5040053 - 29 Sep 2025
Abstract
Compared to studies in school settings, little attention has been paid to bullying in the child protection system (PS), even though these children, adolescents, and youth are one of the most vulnerable groups, with the highest prevalence of bullying. This study aims to
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Compared to studies in school settings, little attention has been paid to bullying in the child protection system (PS), even though these children, adolescents, and youth are one of the most vulnerable groups, with the highest prevalence of bullying. This study aims to analyze, according to gender and nationality, the perception of adolescents and youth in the Spanish PS of the bullying and gender-based bullying situations that take place in their protection facility, as well as their response to these situations and the relationship with the training they received in gender equality, sexual diversity and bullying. Two hundred forty-nine adolescents and youth from 58 centers/facilities of the PS in Spain, with an average age of 16.38 years, participated. Of these, 37.3% had Spanish nationality. A correlational study was conducted using a cross-sectional random sample survey. It was found that 30.9% of the participants identify bullying situations, which reached 34.9% for LGBTIQ-phobic bullying and 37.7% for sexist bullying. Girls identify situations of both bullying and sexist bullying more, and girls and both male and female Spanish adolescents and youth attribute greater severity to these problems and respond more positively in favor of the victims. Those who have received more training in gender equality, sexual diversity, and bullying support bully victims more significantly. According to our current knowledge, this study addresses for the first time the phenomenon of bullying and gender-based bullying in the context of the PS from a perspective of gender, nationality, and the formative dimension. It also highlights the need for mandatory training in gender-equality and sexual diversity for adolescents/youth and educational professionals of the PS, as well as the creation of specific anti-bullying protocols with an inclusive approach.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Presentation and Initial Validation of a New Observational Situation and Coding System for Assessing Triadic Family Interactions with Adolescents
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Michaël Romet, Nicolas Favez, Amalia Foletta, Annie Burnier, Aleksandra Mrozek, Marie Schumacher and Hervé Tissot
Adolescents 2025, 5(4), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5040052 - 25 Sep 2025
Abstract
This study investigated the validity of a new observational procedure for assessing mother–father–adolescent conflict interactions. Addressing key gaps in the field, this procedure moves beyond mother–adolescent dyads and self-report questionnaires by offering a standardized, observational family-level approach. The procedure combines the Lausanne Trilogue
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This study investigated the validity of a new observational procedure for assessing mother–father–adolescent conflict interactions. Addressing key gaps in the field, this procedure moves beyond mother–adolescent dyads and self-report questionnaires by offering a standardized, observational family-level approach. The procedure combines the Lausanne Trilogue Play—Conflict Discussion Task (LTP–CDT) with a coding system, the Family Conflict and Alliance Assessment Scales with Adolescents (FCAAS). In a sample of 82 two-parent families with adolescents aged 10 to 13, the FCAAS demonstrated excellent inter-rater reliability and good validity. Confirmatory factor analysis supported a theoretically grounded two-factor structure. Criterion and construct validity were confirmed via self-reports of marital satisfaction and coparenting, respectively. Ecological validity was supported by family members’ self-reports. This tool offers promising research and clinical applications and may be extended to diverse populations to assess known-group validity.
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(This article belongs to the Section Adolescent Health and Mental Health)
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Open AccessArticle
Loneliness and Social Withdrawal Among College Students: The Mediating Role of Internet Addiction and the Moderating Effect of Sex
by
Xunni Zhou, Muhammad Syawal Amran, Shahlan Surat and Hao Yin
Adolescents 2025, 5(4), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5040051 - 24 Sep 2025
Abstract
While loneliness is a known correlate of social withdrawal, the underlying mechanisms, particularly within college student populations, remain inadequately understood. This study addresses this gap by investigating the mediating role of internet addiction and the moderating role of sex in the relationship between
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While loneliness is a known correlate of social withdrawal, the underlying mechanisms, particularly within college student populations, remain inadequately understood. This study addresses this gap by investigating the mediating role of internet addiction and the moderating role of sex in the relationship between loneliness and social withdrawal. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 1978 Chinese college students. Analyses were performed using SEM (AMOS) and the PROCESS for SPSS to test a moderated mediation model. Results confirmed a significant positive association between loneliness and social withdrawal. Internet addiction was found to significantly mediate this relationship, explaining 50.7% of the total effect. Moreover, sex moderated the indirect pathway, suggesting that the strength of the mediating effect varied by sex. These findings provide empirical support for the Evolutionary Theory of Loneliness by elucidating the psychological processes linking loneliness to social withdrawal within a collectivist cultural context. The study also offers practical implications for developing targeted mental health interventions to reduce social withdrawal and promote social participation among college students.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Featured Research in Adolescent Health)
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Open AccessReview
Nursing Interventions in the Prevention of Musculoskeletal Injuries in Adolescent Athletes: Integrative Review
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Joana Bernardo, Rosa Martins, Camila Morgado, Henrique do Carmo, Luís Aguiar, Teresa dos Santos, Nélia Carvalho and Ricardo Loureiro
Adolescents 2025, 5(4), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5040050 - 23 Sep 2025
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Musculoskeletal injuries are a growing concern among adolescent athletes, with significant physical and psychological consequences. This integrative literature review aimed to analyze the risk factors associated with musculoskeletal injuries in adolescents engaged in sports and to explore the role of nursing interventions in
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Musculoskeletal injuries are a growing concern among adolescent athletes, with significant physical and psychological consequences. This integrative literature review aimed to analyze the risk factors associated with musculoskeletal injuries in adolescents engaged in sports and to explore the role of nursing interventions in their prevention. A systematic search was conducted across four databases and one gray literature source, including studies published between 2014 and 2024. Three descriptive studies were included, with evidence levels ranging from 3 to 4, according to the Joanna Briggs Institute classification. The main findings highlight that risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries include excessive training loads, inadequate sports technique, lack of professional supervision, improper use of equipment, and failure to recognize early signs of discomfort. Preventive nursing interventions were shown to be effective, particularly those focused on health education, proprioceptive training, and continuous monitoring. Multidisciplinary collaboration between nurses, coaches, and other health professionals emerged as a key strategy in creating safe sporting environments. Despite limitations such as the scarcity of studies on nursing-specific interventions in diverse sports contexts, this review supports the potential of structured, evidence-based nursing actions to reduce musculoskeletal injuries incidence, promote safer sports practices, and enhance adolescent athletes’ health outcomes.
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Open AccessArticle
Investigation of Educational Needs of Primary Health Care Professionals in Greece for the Management of Adolescent Addictive Behaviors
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Andreas Meditskos, Emmanouel Hatzipantelis, Flora Bacopoulou, Maria Kaltsa, Panagiotis Stachteas and Emmanouil Smyrnakis
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030049 - 22 Sep 2025
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Purpose: Adolescence is a period of increased vulnerability to addictive behaviors, and Primary Health Care (PHC) plays a crucial role in prevention and intervention (e.g., through Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment), but professionals often face barriers, such as inadequate training and
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Purpose: Adolescence is a period of increased vulnerability to addictive behaviors, and Primary Health Care (PHC) plays a crucial role in prevention and intervention (e.g., through Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment), but professionals often face barriers, such as inadequate training and systemic challenges, particularly within the Greek context. Given the lack of data on their needs, this study aimed to investigate the levels of self-perceived knowledge/skills, attitudes regarding communication and readiness, perceived barriers, and educational expectations among PHC professionals in Greece. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted using an anonymous questionnaire with a convenience sample of 331 PHC professionals from 5 Health Regions. Results: Professionals recognized the high importance of effective communication (M = 4.31/5) but reported low preparedness (M = 2.65/5) and moderate confidence in knowledge, especially in screening tools/motivational interviewing (M = 2.25/5). Lack of training was the main barrier (87.6%). A strong positive correlation was found between knowledge and preparedness (rho = 0.68, p < 0.001), but not between age/experience and readiness (p > 0.05). Discussion: The study highlights a significant readiness gap and a substantial need for specialized training for PHC professionals in Greece, regardless of experience. Targeted interventions are required to enhance skills (especially in SBIRT/MI) and self-efficacy, alongside action to address systemic barriers.
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Open AccessArticle
Fat-Free Mass Normalization Impacts Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Overweight Adolescents
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Srijan Oduru, Kartik Nagaraj, Anvi Charvu, Gautham Ravindran, Marco Meucci and Valerio Bonavolontà
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030048 - 18 Sep 2025
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Accurate assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in adolescents is critical. However, normalizing oxygen consumption (VO2) to body mass (BM) may underestimate CRF in overweight (OW) youth by including metabolically inactive fat mass. This study examined differences in VO2 normalized by
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Accurate assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in adolescents is critical. However, normalizing oxygen consumption (VO2) to body mass (BM) may underestimate CRF in overweight (OW) youth by including metabolically inactive fat mass. This study examined differences in VO2 normalized by BM and fat-free mass (FFM) between normal weight (NW) and OW adolescents. Thirty-eight participants (19 NW, 19 OW; 12–17 years) underwent anthropometric, body composition, and cardiorespiratory fitness assessments. VO2 at the aerobic threshold (VO2AerT), anaerobic threshold (VO2AnT), and peak exercise (VO2peak) were measured and expressed in absolute terms and relative to BM and FFM. Group differences in the main outcomes were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation was used to examine associations between VO2, BM and FFM. When normalized by BM, NW adolescents showed significantly higher VO2AerT (18.7 ± 3.6 vs. 14.5 ± 2.3), VO2AnT (28.8 ± 6.3 vs. 23.6 ± 4.7), and VO2peak (37.7 ± 6.7 vs. 29.1 ± 7.0) compared to OW peers (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found when VO2 values were normalized by FFM. A group difference was observed in the VO2peak vs. BM slope (p = 0.03) but not in the VO2peak vs. FFM slope. FFM normalization provides a more accurate assessment of CRF by accounting for differences in body composition, underscoring the importance of evaluating the aerobic capacity of metabolically active tissue rather than total body weight in youth populations.
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Open AccessArticle
Narratives of Risk: Parents and Community Perspectives on Food Insecurity, Alcohol Use and Sexual Risk Among Adolescent Girls in Underserved Communities
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Eugene Lee Davids
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030047 - 10 Sep 2025
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Underserved communities in South Africa face persistent inequalities that hinder the health and well-being of young people, particularly during the critical developmental phase of adolescence. This study explored perceptions of adolescent health and well-being among parents/guardians and community leaders of adolescent girls in
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Underserved communities in South Africa face persistent inequalities that hinder the health and well-being of young people, particularly during the critical developmental phase of adolescence. This study explored perceptions of adolescent health and well-being among parents/guardians and community leaders of adolescent girls in two underserved communities in Gauteng, focusing on food insecurity, alcohol use, and transactional sex. The sample comprised 63 participants, including parents/guardians of adolescents and community leaders (such as individuals working for community-based organisations or regarded as trusted figures in the community). Two facilitators conducted 11 focus group discussions in English, Sepedi, and isiZulu. All sessions were audio-recorded, translated, and transcribed. The transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. The findings reflect community and parental narratives of risk, showing how adolescents in Mamelodi and Soshanguve—two underserved communities in Gauteng—experience food insecurity that contributes to underage drinking and transactional sex, ultimately leading to teenage pregnancies and HIV infection. The results highlight the risks faced by adolescents, showing how social and structural factors create conditions that enable underage drinking and transactional sex, thereby increasing vulnerability to pregnancy and HIV infection. This study highlights the urgent need for interventions that can effectively address these narratives of risk.
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Open AccessArticle
Examining the Long-Term Impact of Malaria Chemoprophylaxis in Everyday Life in Rural Gambian Adolescents
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Brittany Miller, Andy Hoang, Griffin Litwin, Matthew C. H. Jukes, Hechmi Kilani and Elena L. Grigorenko
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030046 - 28 Aug 2025
Abstract
Children in sub-Saharan Africa remain vulnerable to contracting malaria. While chemoprophylaxis is effective in preventing disease, its impact on social well-being is less understood. In this cross-sectional follow-up study conducted in 2001, we examined the role of chemoprophylaxis on social well-being in rural
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Children in sub-Saharan Africa remain vulnerable to contracting malaria. While chemoprophylaxis is effective in preventing disease, its impact on social well-being is less understood. In this cross-sectional follow-up study conducted in 2001, we examined the role of chemoprophylaxis on social well-being in rural Gambia. Participants were 141 adolescents (age: 14.8–19.5; 40% male) from five villages, drawn from a longitudinal cohort in which one group received chemoprophylaxis in infancy, while the other received a placebo and began prophylaxis 1–2 years post-trial. Using a walking interview methodology, participants guided researchers through five village locations. Their narrations were coded for emotional content and social themes, followed by network analyses examining the relationships between these themes across treatment groups and gender. Emotional response analysis revealed significant gender differences in valence, with females exhibiting higher positive emotional tone than males (X2 = 5.85, p = 0.016). Treatment effects showed gender-specific patterns: among males, the placebo group exhibited higher positive valence compared to the chemoprophylaxis group (X2 = 8.34, p = 0.004), while females showed no treatment differences (X2 = 1.11, p = 0.291). Affect analysis revealed high positive responses across all groups with no significant differences. Network analysis revealed significant gender differences in how adolescents organize social themes within their communities. Females demonstrated higher centrality in eigenvector (global influence; p = 0.039) and degree centrality (number of direct edges; p < 0.001), indicating greater interconnectedness and influence within the networks. No significant treatment group differences were observed in the network structure across any centrality indicators (all p > 0.05). This study provides an example of how the social–ecological framework and ecologically valid assessment methods, such as the walking interview, can be applied to investigate the interplay between early childhood health interventions, social dynamics, and individual development in a rural African context. The findings revealed that gender exerts a stronger influence than early treatment on adolescent social–emotional development.
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(This article belongs to the Section Adolescent Health Behaviors)
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Self-Compassion as a Mediator of the Longitudinal Link Between Parent and Adolescent Depressive Symptoms
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Sónia Cherpe, Marina Cunha, Ana Maria Xavier, Ana Paula Matos, Eiríkur Örn Arnarson, W. Edward Craighead and José Pinto-Gouveia
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030045 - 25 Aug 2025
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The literature has consistently shown the link between parental depressive symptoms and adolescent depressive symptoms. Emotion regulation processes may explain this association, with self-compassion acting as a potential mediating mechanism. This study aimed to explore these developmental trajectories using a longitudinal design. The
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The literature has consistently shown the link between parental depressive symptoms and adolescent depressive symptoms. Emotion regulation processes may explain this association, with self-compassion acting as a potential mediating mechanism. This study aimed to explore these developmental trajectories using a longitudinal design. The sample comprised dyads of parents and adolescents (N = 311), assessed across two assessment waves (T1 and T2) over 12 months. The adolescents’ mean age was 13.63 years (SD = 1.30; 173 males). Mediation analyses using structural equation modelling supported the role of self-compassion in mediating the relationship between parental and adolescent depressive symptoms over time (53% of outcome variance explained). The results suggest that fostering self-compassion early in adolescence may help prevent the later adverse effects of depressive symptoms.
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Open AccessArticle
Family Conflict and Gun Carrying in Adolescence: Multilevel Analysis of Household and Neighborhood Effects in Los Angeles County
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Kathryn M. Barker, Devin Gregoire, Naomi Wilcox, Maryam Izadshenas and Anita Raj
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030044 - 22 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Firearm-related injuries are the leading cause of death among children and adolescents (ages 1 to 19 years) in the United States. Access to and carrying firearms are key risk factors for violence and adolescent firearm use. This study examines the association
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Background: Firearm-related injuries are the leading cause of death among children and adolescents (ages 1 to 19 years) in the United States. Access to and carrying firearms are key risk factors for violence and adolescent firearm use. This study examines the association between family conflict and adolescent gun carrying in Los Angeles County, and the extent to which household and neighborhood contexts contribute to adolescent gun carrying. Methods: We use cross-sectional multilevel data from adolescents ages 12–17 years in the Los Angeles Family and Neighborhood Study, conducted in 2002, to fit a series of generalized linear mixed models to examine the association between family conflict (scale range: 0–2) and adolescent gun carrying. Models include random effects to examine the contributions of household and neighborhood contexts on the outcome measure. Results: After controlling for demographic characteristics, gang involvement, substance use, and household and neighborhood contexts, adolescent experiences of family conflict remain positively associated with adolescent gun carrying behavior (OR = 3.45, p = 0.043). Random effects estimates indicate that a relatively large amount of variation in adolescent gun carrying is explained by household and neighborhood contexts: 23% and 24%, respectively. Conclusions: Multilevel family and community-level interventions, with an emphasis on family violence, are necessary components of prevention strategies to reduce high rates of firearm-related mortality among US adolescents.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Understanding and Addressing Adolescent Aggression and Interpersonal Violence)
Open AccessArticle
Examining the Associations Between Parental Distress in Caregivers of Children Accessing Outpatient Psychiatry with Caregiver Ratings of Child Symptom Severity, Family Functioning, Financial Hardship, Social Support and Self-Care
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Michèle Preyde, Shrenik Parekh and John Heintzman
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030043 - 18 Aug 2025
Abstract
Psychiatric illness during childhood and adolescence is a serious public health concern. Caregivers are critical for their child’s enactment of psychiatric interventions, though caregiver distress can have serious impacts on caregivers and their child’s outcomes. The purpose of this study was to explore
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Psychiatric illness during childhood and adolescence is a serious public health concern. Caregivers are critical for their child’s enactment of psychiatric interventions, though caregiver distress can have serious impacts on caregivers and their child’s outcomes. The purpose of this study was to explore the associations of caregiver distress with child symptom severity, family functioning, and caregiver social support and self-care at the time of their child’s referral to outpatient psychiatry. Caregiver distress was most strongly associated with parent self-care (higher distress for parents associated with less self-care), child symptoms (higher distress associated with higher severity), and parent age (higher distress associated with younger caregivers). These findings shed light on important and evolving characteristics of caregivers, which could be considerations for child and family interventions in outpatient psychiatry, and the importance of a family approach for improving overall health.
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Open AccessArticle
The Experience of Abuse and Depressive Symptoms Among Adolescents in a Post-Conflict Setting: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Natalie Durbeej, Yusuf Abdi Hared, Abdulwahab Mubarik Ahmed, Hayat Mohamed Hassan, Reneé Flacking, Junia Joffer, Ann Rudman and Fatumo Osman
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030042 - 8 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the relationship between the experience of abuse and depressive symptoms among children and adolescents in a post-conflict setting while controlling for perceived support and individual background factors. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the post-conflict setting of Borama,
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This study aimed to explore the relationship between the experience of abuse and depressive symptoms among children and adolescents in a post-conflict setting while controlling for perceived support and individual background factors. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the post-conflict setting of Borama, Somaliland. A total of 645 adolescents that attended upper primary and lower secondary schools were included. The exposure variables were (a) experience of physical abuse, (b) experience of psychological abuse, and (c) experience of either or both forms of abuse. The outcome was depressive symptoms as measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Physical and psychological abuse were associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms (B = 2.74, p < 0.001 and B = 1.62, p < 0.001, respectively). The girls had higher levels of depressive symptoms than the boys (B = 0.71, p = 0.004). Moreover, a greater age was associated with higher levels of symptoms (B = 0.17, p = 0.033). Higher social support levels were associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms (B = −0.08, p = 0.001). Our findings suggest that interventions providing social support to adolescents who experience abuse may be beneficial in reducing depressive symptoms.
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(This article belongs to the Section Adolescent Health and Mental Health)
Open AccessReview
Unheard and Unseen: A Systematic Literature Review of Emotional Abuse Among Indian Adolescents
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Afreen Waseem and Naila Firdous
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030041 - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Emotional abuse is both prevalent and underrecognized particularly in culturally complex settings like India. Adolescents, being in a critical developmental phase, are especially vulnerable to the long-lasting psychological effects of emotional abuse. This qualitative literature review aims to synthesize findings from primary
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Background: Emotional abuse is both prevalent and underrecognized particularly in culturally complex settings like India. Adolescents, being in a critical developmental phase, are especially vulnerable to the long-lasting psychological effects of emotional abuse. This qualitative literature review aims to synthesize findings from primary studies that explore the lived experiences of emotional abuse among Indian adolescents and identify emerging patterns across sociocultural contexts. Method: Electronic databases, including DOAJ, Google Scholar, ProQuest, JSTOR, Pubmed, PsycNet, and SCOPUS, were searched for peer-reviewed articles published in English up to March 2025. Inclusion criteria comprised qualitative or mixed-methods research focusing on emotional abuse among adolescents aged 12–20 in Indian contexts. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) was used for quality assessment. Results: Five major thematic domains were identified across the included studies: (1) Family as a primary site of emotional abuse; (2) Gendered experiences of abuse; (3) Cultural normalization and silence; (4) Psychological and emotional consequences; and (5) Coping and resilience among adolescents. These themes reflect shared experiences of emotional abuse shaped by cultural, familial, and gender-based expectations. Conclusions: This review highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and culturally sensitive interventions addressing emotional abuse in Indian adolescents. The findings suggest that parents, educators, and policymakers must recognize emotionally harmful behaviors and implement prevention-oriented strategies, particularly through non-violent communication and adolescent mental health support frameworks.
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(This article belongs to the Section Adolescent Health and Mental Health)
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The Relationship Between Kindness and Transgressive Behaviors in Adolescence: The Moderating Role of Self-Importance of Moral Identity
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Claudia Russo, Ioana Zagrean, Lucrezia Cavagnis, Sara Cristalli, Valentina Valtulini, Francesca Danioni and Daniela Barni
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030040 - 1 Aug 2025
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Adolescence is marked by identity formation and moral development, often accompanied by increased transgressive behaviors. While existing research highlights the interplay between moral constructs and transgression in adolescence, the role of kindness remains underexamined. This study conceptualizes kindness as a multidimensional moral construct
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Adolescence is marked by identity formation and moral development, often accompanied by increased transgressive behaviors. While existing research highlights the interplay between moral constructs and transgression in adolescence, the role of kindness remains underexamined. This study conceptualizes kindness as a multidimensional moral construct and investigates the relationship between different stages of kindness (i.e., egocentric, social/normative, extrinsically motivated, authentic) and transgressive behaviors among adolescents, also considering the moderating role of self-importance of moral identity. The participants were 215 Italian adolescents (aged 15–19) who completed a self-report questionnaire. The results showed that egocentric and authentic kindness were positively and negatively associated with transgression, respectively. Moreover, moral identity significantly enhanced the protective role of authentic kindness. These findings suggest that the relationship between kindness and transgression varies based on the stage of kindness and the importance adolescents attribute to their moral identity. They contribute to extending the understanding of kindness during adolescence, offering implications for reducing transgressive behaviors through targeted and innovative interventions.
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of a Family Function Program on Excessive Digital Use in Thai Female Muslim Adolescents
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Yejin Kim, Wanchai Dhammasaccakarn, Kasetchai Laeheem and Idsaratt Rinthaisong
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030039 - 30 Jul 2025
Abstract
This study assessed the effects of a family function (FF) program on excessive digital behaviors—smartphone overuse (SO) and phubbing—and psychological needs—anxiety, loneliness, and fear of missing out (FoMO)—among 28 Thai female Muslim adolescents randomly assigned to the experimental (Mage = 15.7) and
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This study assessed the effects of a family function (FF) program on excessive digital behaviors—smartphone overuse (SO) and phubbing—and psychological needs—anxiety, loneliness, and fear of missing out (FoMO)—among 28 Thai female Muslim adolescents randomly assigned to the experimental (Mage = 15.7) and control (Mage = 15.2) groups. The experimental group received two 1.5 h morning sessions of the FF program weekly over four weeks (eight sessions in total). Baseline assessments confirmed group homogeneity. Using repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni correction (p < 0.008), the results indicated a significant improvement in family function for the intervention group (F (1,26) = 11.91, p = 0.002, η2p = 0.31), with a strong time-by-group interaction (F (1,26) = 19.51, p < 0.001, η2p = 0.43). While the program did not significantly reduce SO overall, a notable interaction effect suggested group differences (F (1,26) = 10.31, p = 0.004, η2p = 0.28). Phubbing remained unaffected. For psychological outcomes, interaction effects were found for the FoMO (F = 10.00, p = 0.004) and loneliness (F = 8.67, p = 0.007), though no main effects emerged. Anxiety levels did not significantly change after correction. These findings suggest that the program effectively enhances family functioning and partially alleviates psychosocial risks, but further refinements are needed to address digital overuse and anxiety more effectively.
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(This article belongs to the Section Adolescent Health Behaviors)
Open AccessArticle
Parental Interference/Family Abduction and Its Relationship with Depressive Symptoms in Children and Adolescents
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Diego Portilla-Saavedra, Estefany Retamal Ninahuanca and Katherin Castillo-Morales
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030038 - 23 Jul 2025
Abstract
The literature has been scarce in addressing parental interference/family abduction and its relationship with depressive symptoms. Due to this, the objective of this study was to examine the association between family abduction/parental interference and depressive symptoms in a national sample of 11,568 children
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The literature has been scarce in addressing parental interference/family abduction and its relationship with depressive symptoms. Due to this, the objective of this study was to examine the association between family abduction/parental interference and depressive symptoms in a national sample of 11,568 children and adolescents aged 12 to 18 from Chile. Robust linear regression models were conducted to assess how these experiences are related to depressive symptoms while controlling for age. Our results show that children and adolescents who reported these experiences in their lives presented higher levels of depressive symptoms. Additionally, although all forms of caregiver victimization were associated with depressive symptoms, parental interference/family abduction also showed a significant association, even when controlling for sociodemographic variables. These findings highlight the need for attention to the phenomenon of family abduction/parental interference, especially concerning its potential associations with mental health outcomes such as depression. Theoretically, the study contributes to the limited body of research on this form of caregiver victimization, and practically, it provides evidence that may inform future prevention strategies and mental health policies targeting children and adolescents exposed to high-conflict family dynamics in the Chilean context.
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(This article belongs to the Section Adolescent Health and Mental Health)
Open AccessSystematic Review
Risk Factors for Teen Dating Violence Among Sexual and Gender Minority Youths: A Systematic Review
by
Francesco Sulla, Giulia Fiorentino, Giuseppe La Selva, Nunzia Merafina, Salvatore Adam Leone and Lucia Monacis
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030037 - 14 Jul 2025
Abstract
Background: Teen dating violence (TDV) is a serious public health concern, with sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) at elevated risk due to minority stress and systemic inequalities. This systematic review examines individual, relational, and contextual risk factors for TDV among SGMY. Methods:
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Background: Teen dating violence (TDV) is a serious public health concern, with sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) at elevated risk due to minority stress and systemic inequalities. This systematic review examines individual, relational, and contextual risk factors for TDV among SGMY. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, and APA PsycInfo on 10 December 2024. Studies published between 2014 and 2024 focusing on teen dating violence (TDV) as an outcome among sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) aged 13–19 were included. Study selection was independently performed by multiple reviewers using Rayyan. Risk of bias was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Tools. Due to heterogeneity in the study design and measurement tools, a narrative synthesis was conducted. Results: Six risk domains emerged: (1) Demographic/Identity (e.g., gender, orientation, or race); (2) Psychological/Behavioral (e.g., distress or substance use); (3) Violence/Bullying (e.g., cyberbullying or exclusion); (4) Family/Sexual Abuse (e.g., family rejection); (5) Relational/Social (e.g., partner outing); and (6) School/Community (e.g., non-inclusive environments). Bisexual, pansexual, transgender, and racialized youth showed heightened vulnerability. Most studies were conducted in the USA and relied on non-validated TDV measures and cross-sectional designs, limiting comparability and causal inference. Conclusions: SGMY face unique, often overlooked TDV risks. There is a need for intersectional, longitudinal research and inclusive, developmentally appropriate prevention efforts that address both relational and structural factors. This review received no external funding and was not registered.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Understanding and Addressing Adolescent Aggression and Interpersonal Violence)
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Open AccessArticle
The Role of Boredom in the Development of Risky Behaviours Among Adolescents
by
Bruno Matijašević, Snježana Mališa and Antonija Vukašinović
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030036 - 11 Jul 2025
Abstract
Background: Boredom is a common but insufficiently explored experience in adolescence, which has been increasingly linked to the development of risky behaviours. This study explores the extent to which boredom predicts engagement in various risky behaviours among adolescents aged 15 to 17. Methods:
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Background: Boredom is a common but insufficiently explored experience in adolescence, which has been increasingly linked to the development of risky behaviours. This study explores the extent to which boredom predicts engagement in various risky behaviours among adolescents aged 15 to 17. Methods: A cross-sectional study on a sample of 281 high-school students in Croatia was performed in 2024. The participants completed a structured online questionnaire, including validated scales measuring their proneness to boredom, substance use, disordered eating, theft, and cyberbullying. Data were analysed using non-parametric tests, correlation coefficients, and linear regression. Results: Boredom showed a significant association with all forms of risky behaviour, with the strongest association found for disordered eating. Moderate predictive ability was observed for alcohol, marijuana, and drug use, while weaker but significant associations with cyberbullying and theft were also found. Male adolescents reported higher involvement in certain risky behaviours, although no significant gender differences were observed in boredom levels. Conclusions: Boredom is a developmental risk factor, notably when leisure time lacks structure and meaning. While the cross-sectional design of this study limits causal conclusions, the findings highlight the importance of taking boredom into consideration regarding pedagogical prevention efforts. Pedagogical activities targeting quality leisure time, especially within schools and families, may reduce adolescents’ susceptibility to harmful behaviours.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implicit Measures of Risky Behaviors in Adolescence)
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Open AccessArticle
Economic Vulnerability and Associated Sexual Risk Factors for Adolescent Pregnancy Among Adolescent Females in Southern California
by
Mia Mora, Guadalupe X. Ayala, Emily Schmied, Ning Tang and Elizabeth Reed
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030035 - 11 Jul 2025
Abstract
We assessed economic vulnerability, measured by food insecurity, in relation to primary risk behaviors for adolescent pregnancy among U.S. adolescent females. The survey data for this cross-sectional study were collected from adolescent females (n = 187) recruited from high schools (n
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We assessed economic vulnerability, measured by food insecurity, in relation to primary risk behaviors for adolescent pregnancy among U.S. adolescent females. The survey data for this cross-sectional study were collected from adolescent females (n = 187) recruited from high schools (n = 18) serving low-income communities in Southern California between January 2022 and July 2023. We used crude and adjusted logistic regression models to assess associations between food insecurity and sexual risk behaviors for adolescent pregnancy (e.g., early age of sexual initiation, contraceptive use, condom use), as well as financial dependence on a male partner. Adjusted models included demographics significantly associated with outcome variables. Participants were, on average, 17 years old (SD = 1.48); most participants were born in the U.S. (90.3%) and identified as Latina/Hispanic (85.0%). In crude and adjusted bivariate logistic regression models, compared to participants not reporting food insecurity, participants who reported food insecurity were (1) more likely to report early age at first sex (aOR: 3.6, 95% CI: 1.1–11.7), (2) less likely to report condom use in the previous six months among those sexually active during that timeframe (aOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1–0.6), and (3) more likely to report being financially dependent on a male partner (aOR: 4.2. 95% CI: 1.6–11.3). The findings suggest the importance of addressing economic vulnerability to reduce risk factors for adolescent pregnancy.
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