NCJ Number
111093
Date Published
1985
Length
103 pages
Annotation
This 1985 survey examined the perceived problems and needs of a stratified random sample of 2,208 students in Grades 7-12 in Dane County, Wis.
Abstract
Results indicate a physically healthy and fairly optimistic population of youth, with only 2 percent reporting serious health problems and 70 percent feeling positive about their adult job prospects. There was a tendency for high school girls to report higher problem frequency and seriousness, lower self-esteem, and greater need for help in many areas of their lives. High rates of anxiety and depression were found, with 30 percent reporting considering suicide as a problem. A high frequency of problems were reported in the areas of pressure to become sexually active, trouble getting along with family, pressure to achieve high grades, and employment and recreation opportunities. While alcohol experimentation and use were still high, decreases in heavy use levels were found compared to 1980 data. Marijuana use also showed decreases. Also found was a consistent improvement in attitudes toward police and courts since 1980. Over 28 percent expressed a need for services in the areas of career information, school help, personal emotional/family problems, jobs, and weight control. A wide gap was found between the number expressing a need for help and those reporting actually finding useful help. Additional data are appended. 24 figures and 6 references.