Adolescent psychosocial well-being and voice and agency in Chittagong, Bangladesh

While there is little research available on psychosocial well-being in Bangladesh, and adolescent psychosocial well-being in particular (Stavropoulou et al., 2017), some studies have shown increases in stress around puberty for girls (Amin, 2015) and in urban areas (Dey et al., 2014). A study of the psychosocial well-being of primary school children in Chittagong town found that 20.3% had pro-social problems, 19.3% had conduct problems and about 1.5% had symptoms of emotional distress (Bairagi et al., 2013). Adolescents of Bengali ethnicity and high-achieving adolescents expressed higher self-acceptance and lower anxiety compared with their peers (Islam et al., 2014).

This brief draws on evidence from GAGE (Gender and Adolescence: Global Evidence) – a unique longitudinal mixed methods research and impact evaluation study focused on what works to support the development of adolescents’ capabilities during the second decade of life (10–19 years).

Suggested citation

Mitu, K., Ala Uddin, M., Camfield, L. and Muz, J. (2019) 'Adolescent psychosocial well-being and voice and agency in Chittagong, Bangladesh.' Policy Note. London: Gender and Adolescence: Global Evidence. (https://www.gage.odi.org/publication/adolescent-psychosocial-well-being-and-voice-and-agency-in-chittagong-bangladesh/)