Children in Ireland 'happier and healthier'
Wednesday, 11 November 2009 11:16
Children in Ireland are happier and healthier than their neighbours in the UK, according to a new report conducted in collaboration with the World Health Organisation.
The in-depth survey co-authored by NUI Galway involved almost 20,000 children aged between 11 and 15 in Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales.
The report titled Young People's Health in Great Britain and Ireland looked at issues such as eating patterns, physical activity, substance use and relationships with family and friends.
Overall, Irish children reported a higher rate of life satisfaction. They were less likely to report feeling low or having a poor body image.
Irish children were also more likely to engage in physical activity and less likely to spend excessive time on computers or games consoles.
After England, young people in Ireland had the lowest level of daily smoking at 6.5%. They also reported a lower level of consumption of alcoholic beverages.
They were also most likely to live with both parents and in bigger households than their counterparts in England, Scotland and Wales.
No data was collected in Ireland on sexual behaviour, due to concerns that teachers and parents might object.
However, the researchers involved hope this lack of data will be corrected in the future.
