In recent years, Hong Kong adolescents have been facing various degrees of stress in adjusting to changes in academic, social, physical and psychological domains, among which academic pressure is often associated with emotional problems.
A research team led by Prof. Daniel Shek has conducted two longitudinal studies with an aim to unveiling the challenges faced by adolescents in association with the New Senior Secondary Curriculum. The studies’ findings showed a decline in students’ life satisfaction, with more than 10% reporting suicidal thoughts. In the past few years, while students’ stress towards the new secondary school curriculum intensified, their confidence in handling studies and perceived school support was in downward trend. They generally regarded learning life skills as important, but found them inadequately covered by the secondary school curriculum. However, they generally showed positive views towards the overall secondary school life, yet negative views towards the senior secondary school curriculum. More than 40% of the students preferred the old secondary school curriculum.
Such findings suggest hidden problems in the well-being development of Hong Kong adolescents. The research team called for better collaboration among the government, schools, parents and the public in reviewing the new secondary school curriculum, and suggested more funding support for schools and community organisations to strengthen the psychological well-being education of secondary students. Details>>