An Investigation of Adolescent Psychosocial Factors and Disengagement from Education and Employment Among Individuals with Common Mental Health Problems
Abstract
Background: Participation in employment and education have been highlighted as
key to health and wellbeing. Adolescents with common mental health problems are at
risk of being “not in education, employment or training” (NEET) in young adulthood
which negatively influences their life chances. Therefore, it is important to address the
determinants of education and employment outcomes for this population.
Methods: A systematic review and meta-analyses focusing on adolescent
psychosocial factors associated with participation in education and employment in
young adulthood was completed. This was followed by a quantitative analysis of data
from the Next Steps cohort study using waves 2 and 8 which supplied evidence on
2,224 adolescents with common mental health problems in England, United Kingdom.
Different statistical techniques were used to examine associations.
Results: Fourteen articles were included in the systematic review providing evidence
on adolescent psychosocial factors that mapped into seven domains, namely,
behavioral problems, peer problems, substance use, prosocial skills, self-evaluations,
aspirations, and physical activity. Secondary data analysis suggested that adolescents
with common mental health problems who were disengaged as young adults were
more likely to be female, have lower socioeconomic status, live in single/no parent
households, and have caring responsibilities. Lower self-esteem, external locus of
control, no job aspirations, and low/no physical activity increased the likelihood of
becoming NEET whereas more positive attitudes to school and avoiding being bullied
decreased the likelihood after adjustment for background characteristics.
Conclusion: Psychosocial factors play an important role in disengagement from
education and employment after compulsory education for adolescents with common
mental health problems. School-based interventions during secondary school focusing
on psychosocial factors, particularly physical activity could be helpful. The findings
encourage provision of targeted mental health support at school, community, and
clinical settings to prevent undesired educational and employment outcomes and
improve life chances for at-risk youth.