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Sex Differences in Risk Factors for Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Korean Adolescents
1Department of Big Data Medical Convergence, Eulji University, Seongnam, Korea.
Journal of the Korean Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
|October 9, 2024
Summary
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is more prevalent in adolescent girls. Risk factors like poor academic performance and substance use impact both sexes, but smoking and drinking pose a greater GAD risk for girls.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent mental health
- Psychiatry
- Public health
Background:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a significant mental health concern among adolescents.
- Understanding sex-specific risk factors is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sex differences in risk factors associated with GAD in Korean adolescents.
- To inform the development of targeted GAD prevention programs.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from 51,845 Korean middle and high school students (Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey).
- Assessment of GAD using the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder tool.
- Comparison of GAD prevalence and risk factors between male and female students using chi-square tests and logistic regression.
Main Results:
- GAD prevalence was higher in girls (42.1%) than boys (30.1%).
- Lower academic performance, lower economic status, smoking, drinking, and sexual experience were associated with increased GAD risk in both sexes.
- Smoking and drinking showed a greater increase in GAD risk for girls compared to boys. Boys living apart from their families had a higher GAD risk.
Conclusions:
- Sex differences in GAD risk factors among adolescents are significant.
- Tailored, sex-specific interventions are essential for effective GAD prevention and management in Korean youth.
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