A New Look at Psychological Health and Life Satisfaction: A Quadripartite Model

Abstract

COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on adolescents’ psychological health. Two national studies were conducted. The DGEEC study included 9 to 18-year-old pupils. The HBSC study (2 waves) included pupils from the 6th, 8th, 10th, 12th grades. For each study, two groups were established based on life satisfaction scores and on psychological symptoms scores, producing four groups. In both studies, the group with high life satisfaction and reduced psychological symptoms had more boys and younger pupils. The group with low life satisfaction and pronounced psychological symptoms comprised more girls and older pupils. In the DGEEC Study, pupils with low life satisfaction and pronounced psychological symptoms were more likely to exhibit other unwellness signs. In the HBSC study, from 2018 to 2022 (with the COVID-19 in between), psychological symptoms increased significantly and life satisfaction decreased, exacerbating inequities. This model allowed to examine the results of DGEEC and HBSC studies under a new perspective comprising four scenarios, offering an innovative viewpoint on adolescents’ psychological health. Results also suggest a potential buffering effect of being physically active, adequate sleep, and adequate screen time. This is a powerful message for health and education professionals and policymakers regarding the relevance of health education and promotion.