The Repercussions of the Economic Recession in Greece on Adolescents and their Families

Abstract

Background: Greece is among the countries hit most severely by the recent global economic crisis. Given that poverty in childhood and adolescence can have lifelong implications, investigation of the impact of the crisis on various aspects of adolescents’ well-being is critical for guiding prevention policies. Objective: To examine the impact of the crisis on adolescents’ lives in Greece, along with the trends – before and during the crisis – in sociodemographic and well-being indicators. Methods: Data were drawn from three successive waves (2006, 2010 and 2014) of the HBSC survey in Greece. Stratified probability samples of between 3,600 and 4,900 students aged 11, 13 and 15 years old answered an anonymous questionnaire in their classrooms under the supervision of trained researchers. Data were compared by X2 tests taking account of the complex survey design. Results: The impact of the economic crisis is reflected in the increase of parental unemployment, tensions and fights within the family, constraints on going on holidays, and in fewer private lessons. Student’s life satisfaction has fallen. Older students report effects of the crisis more than younger ones. While an increase was noted in cannabis use among boys, smoking and alcohol consumption decreased in both genders. Conclusions: Findings enhance our understanding of the impact of the economic crisis on adolescents and families in Greece. These data may aid the shaping of policies to protect families and their offspring from the repercussions of the current crisis.