Disability, mental health, & violence in adolescents in Uganda
Author Information
Author(s): Carter Daniel J., Pitcairn Charlie F. M., Eldred Emily, Knight Louise, Nakuti Janet, Mirembe Angel, Atuhaire Lydia, Allen Elizabeth, Bhatia Amiya, Naker Dipak, Parkes Jenny, Devries Karen
Primary Institution: Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
Hypothesis
Does disability modify the association between poor mental health and violence victimisation over adolescence?
Conclusion
Poor mental health in early adolescence is associated with depression and violence victimisation in later adolescence, and the association is stronger among adolescents living with disabilities.
Supporting Evidence
- High prevalence of mental health difficulties in adolescence was observed.
- There is a positive association between early mental health difficulties and later outcomes.
- The risk of poor outcomes is greater for individuals with poorer mental health in early adolescence.
- Adolescents with functional difficulties experience stronger associations between mental health and violence.
Takeaway
If kids have mental health problems when they are younger, they might have more problems later, especially if they have disabilities.
Methodology
The study used data from two waves of a longitudinal cohort study, assessing mental health difficulties, depression, and violence victimisation among Ugandan adolescents.
Potential Biases
Potential under-reporting of mental health and violence experiences due to stigma.
Limitations
The study may not be generalizable to all adolescents as participants were drawn from specific schools and may not represent those not attending school.
Participant Demographics
Participants were Ugandan adolescents aged 11-18, with 20.6% reporting some functional difficulties.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.03
Confidence Interval
95% CI for risk difference and risk ratio provided in the results.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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