College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

Young Scots urged to reflect on Covid-19 impact

Young people in Scotland are being asked to share their experiences of how the Covid-19 pandemic is affecting their lives.

Two University of Edinburgh studies will seek to better understand how changes in school and home on life have impacted on the everyday experience of teenagers.

Researchers say the studies will help to ensure that young people’s voices are heard by policy makers as the country eases out of lockdown.

Teen study

The TeenCovidLife study will explore topics including loneliness, sleeping patterns, family relationships, daily routines and how lockdown has impacted on physical and mental health.

The survey of 12 to 17 year olds is being led by researchers working on Edinburgh’s CovidLife study, which is seeking to capture how Covid-19 is affecting the mood of the nation.

TeenCovidLife involves the University of Glasgow’s Scottish Schools Health and Wellbeing Improvement Research Network (SHINE). More than 100 schools will be asked to take part.

We hope to understand how not being able to go school, sit potentially life-changing exams, keep up with clubs and sports or meet up with  friends has affected young people.

Professor David PorteousLead Investigator for CovidLife

Mental health

A study by the University’s School of Education and Sport will seek to find out how isolation, school closures and exam cancellations have affected the mental health of young people in Scotland.

Researchers will also gauge the impacts of the pandemic on the mental health of groups of young people typically identified as vulnerable.

A key part of the study will asking young people what they think can be done to address their concerns about mental health during the pandemic. The Study is funded by the Chief Scientist Office

The vital insights that pupils provide will enable us to assess the impacts of Covid-19 on mental health and education, and also help to inform interventions and policymaking.

Professor Gillean McCluskeyMoray House School of Education and SportCitation role (optional)

Related links

CovidLife

SHINE network

Chief Scientist Office

[Image credit: Halfpoint via Getty Images]