Adolescent social outcomes declined during COVID-19: evidence From Bangladesh, Jordan, And Ethiopia

This study explored changes in adolescent outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly among vulnerable adolescents, focusing on education, economic participation, early marriage, self-reported health, and food security. We investigated the role of governmental and nongovernmental cash and food aid in mitigating negative effects.

Using panel data collected both before (2017–20) and at two points during (2020–21) the pandemic on more than 7,000 adolescents from Bangladesh, Jordan, and Ethiopia, we found evidence of worsening outcomes across all measures except self-reported health. Declines were generally worse for more vulnerable adolescents. This research highlights the need for greater focus on developing social protection that is responsive to the multifaceted needs of adolescents.

Suggested citation:

Seager, J., Oakley, E., Akhtar, A., Das, S., Hamory, J. and Baird, S. (2023) 'Adolescent Social Outcomes Declined During COVID-19: Evidence From Bangladesh, Jordan, And Ethiopia' Health Affairs 42(12): 1-12 (https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/full/10.1377/hlthaff.2023.00818)