Persistent Global Disparities in Adolescent Mental Health Research

A comprehensive systematic review involving 172 studies and data from over 12 million adolescents across 166 countries reveals that, despite notable progress, significant global disparities remain in adolescent mental health research. While research efforts focusing on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have surged, especially since 2020, many nations still lack representation. Specifically, 52 countries were absent from all reviewed studies. Most studies employed cross-sectional, school-based surveys utilizing self-report questionnaires, with prominent tools such as the Health Behavior in School-aged Children study, the Global School-based Student Health Survey, and the Program for International Student Assessment. The review highlights that issues like bullying and internalizing disorders such as anxiety and depression are frequently studied, whereas externalizing behaviors like aggression receive less attention. Interestingly, traditional bullying was reported more often in LMICs. A key challenge identified is the reliance on assessment tools developed based on Western mental health constructs, raising concerns about their validity across diverse cultures. Experts emphasize that understanding adolescent mental health globally requires tailored, culturally grounded instruments, especially since a substantial majority of adolescents live in LMICs. Future research should prioritize culturally sensitive methodologies, include diverse populations such as minorities and marginalized groups, and employ validated, multi-informant approaches to obtain a more accurate and inclusive picture of youth mental health worldwide. Addressing these disparities is crucial for developing effective, globally applicable mental health interventions.