Unhappy children are more likely to drink alcohol and have sex

Underage drinking and risky sexual behaviors may be a sign a child does not like school. Published in Substance Abuse, Treatment, Prevention and Policy, this study explains how the satisfaction level of a child with school may be directly related to behavior and attitude outside of school.

For this study, over 3,500 children between the ages of 11 and 14 were analyzed. It was found that children as young as 13 years old are drinking alcohol and having sex. Also, children who drink are more likely to engage in sexual behavior as well.

Children were asked about happiness levels in terms of personal appearance, relationships with family members, and general mood. Children were also questioned about attitudes towards school, treatment from teachers, and whether or not school rules were typically obeyed.

Authors explained children who explained unhappiness with school were nearly three times as likely to have had a sexual relationship. Alcohol use was also related to a dislike of school in children.

Researchers explain children who are unhappy with school life or home life are much more likely to engage in alcohol consumption and sexual behavior. Children engaging in these behaviors notice increased risks of teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and alcohol related deaths.

This study shows that children requiring the most support of often the hardest to reach. Additional measures and communication methods need to be explored.