-Automatic translation

A new issue of Talnabrunnur (Icelandic), published by the Directorate of Health, explores children's well-being, safety, and social connections in Iceland and how these factors relate to their perception of their family's financial status. The Icelandic Youth Research Survey data were analyzed to examine potential inequalities in children's health and well-being. The findings were presented at a seminar held by the Directorate of Health in collaboration with the United Nations Association in Iceland and The Institute of Continuing Education at the University of Iceland in relation to the International Day of Happiness on March 20th. A recording of the seminar is available online.

Significant differences among children based on their subjective economic status

Children's well-being in grades 6-10 in 2024 was good across most areas. Most children report high life satisfaction, feel good at school, and have strong relationships with their family, teachers, and classmates. However, there is a significant difference in well-being, social connections, and safety based on how the children perceive their family's financial situation.

Children who consider their family's financial situation poor fare much worse than those who perceive it to be good across all measured indicators. They are more likely to experience sadness and anxiety almost daily, report low life satisfaction, dislike school, feel lonely and excluded, have been in fights, experienced or engaged in bullying, and been subjected to violence by a parent or another adult in their home. They are also far less likely to report that they receive the emotional support and help they need from their family, that their classmates are friendly, that they trust their teachers, and that their teachers care about them as individuals.

Inequality in Children's Well-being

Inequality among children has serious consequences, not only for the individuals affected but also for society's long-term development. A 2021 report by the Directorate of Health found that individuals with financial difficulties or lower educational attainment generally had poorer health and lifestyles compared to those with higher educational attainment or better financial standing. The report emphasized the importance of viewing health and well-being disparities in the context of overall living conditions in society.

Additionally, a Talnabrunnur report on adult well-being from 2023 (Icelandic) showed that an increasing number of people are struggling to make ends meet. This is concerning as parental stress, well-being, and financial stability directly impact children.

There is a strong need to monitor children's well-being and living conditions based on their socio-economic status and implement better measures to support those at a disadvantage, including within the school system. It is essential to support families with children and recognize that parental well-being affects children's well-being. Targeted actions are necessary to ensure healthy developmental conditions for all children.

The data examined in this issue of Talnabrunnur suggests that children's opportunities for a healthy and fulfilling life are unequal from early childhood. If no action is taken, these disparities will likely grow throughout their lifetime, further exacerbating health inequalities. Equal opportunities and good upbringing conditions are keys to a prosperous society in the long run. Therefore, it is crucial to safeguard the well-being, health, and overall prosperity of all children and youth, leaving no one behind.

Further information
Kjartan Hreinn Njálsson, Assistant to the Medical Director of Health
kjartan.h.njalsson@landlaeknir.is