Girls Experience Higher Academic Pressure and Less Support Than Boys, WHO Report Reveals
A recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights a concerning trend: girls are experiencing more academic pressure and receiving less support at home and from peers compared to boys. This report is based on a comprehensive study involving nearly 280,000 adolescents aged 11 to 15 years across 44 countries in Europe, Canada, and Central Asia.
Declining Support from Family and Peers
One of the key findings of the report is the decline in perceived support from family and peers. According to the survey, 68% of respondents reported feeling supported by their family, marking a 5% decrease from a previous survey conducted in 2018. Similarly, 58% of adolescents felt supported by their peers, which is a 3% drop from the last survey.
Call for Comprehensive Action
The WHO underscores the necessity for governments to implement coordinated actions across all levels of society to combat this trend, which affects the mental health and well-being of millions of young people. The organization advises that governments should provide financial support to low-income families, as research indicates that children from these backgrounds face more significant challenges than those from higher-income families.
Integrating Social and Emotional Skills in Education
The report further reveals that girls are more likely to experience stress due to high expectations for academic performance, whereas boys are often encouraged to focus on physical prowess. As a result, educational authorities are urged to provide better support to young people and consider the different impact factors between genders. Schools should become more accessible, for example, through targeted academic counseling and the incorporation of social and emotional skills training in the curriculum.
Unprecedented Challenges for Today’s Youth
Hans Kluge, WHO’s Regional Director for Europe, has stated that today’s youth face unprecedented challenges in their social environments, which could have long-lasting effects on their mental health and future opportunities.
Understanding the Broader Context
The findings of this report reflect a broader societal issue where gender expectations and socio-economic factors significantly impact young people’s development. The disparity in support and pressure levels between girls and boys can lead to long-term consequences, influencing not only their academic success but also their mental health and career prospects.
The Role of Policy and Community Engagement
Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach. Policymakers need to ensure that educational systems are equipped to handle the diverse needs of students, with particular attention to gender-specific challenges. Community initiatives can also play a crucial role in providing support networks for young people, fostering environments where they feel valued and understood.
Implications for Mental Health
The reduction in support and the increase in academic pressure are likely to exacerbate mental health issues among adolescents. It is crucial to recognize the signs of stress and anxiety early on and provide necessary interventions. Mental health education and resources should be integrated into school programs to equip students with the tools they need to manage stress effectively.
Conclusion: Moving Forward
The WHO report serves as a vital call to action for governments, educational institutions, and communities worldwide. By addressing the root causes of gender disparities in academic pressure and support, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment for all young people. Collaborative efforts will be essential in ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to thrive both academically and personally.