Internalizing and externalizing symptoms in children during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic mixed studies review

Annalisa Levante1,2, Chiara Martis1, Federica Bianco3

  • 1Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy.

PubMed

Insights

The COVID-19 pandemic increased children's internalizing and externalizing symptoms, linked to less play and more screen time. Parental distress was a key factor, with girls showing more internalizing and boys more externalizing symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Child Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Mental Health

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant risks to children's wellbeing.
  • Understanding the pandemic's impact on children's mental health is crucial.

Conclusions:

  • Gender-specific interventions for children and parents are recommended.
  • The cross-sectional nature of reviewed studies limits prediction of long-term outcomes.
  • Longitudinal research is needed to understand the pandemic's lasting effects on children's mental health.
Abstract

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