Understanding the Impact of Social Determinants of Health on Adolescents
As practitioners dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children, understanding the multifaceted influences on adolescent health is crucial. The recent scoping review titled Racial/ethnic differences in social determinants of health and health outcomes among adolescents and youth ages 10–24 years old: a scoping review offers valuable insights into how social determinants of health (SDOH) affect youth across different racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Key Findings from the Scoping Review
The review synthesizes data from 29 studies, highlighting significant racial and ethnic disparities in health outcomes among adolescents aged 10-24. These disparities are influenced by various SDOH, including:
- Economic Stability: Factors such as poverty and housing instability were found to significantly impact health behaviors and outcomes, with economically disadvantaged adolescents showing varied health behaviors across racial lines.
- Education Access and Quality: Educational attainment was a critical factor, with disparities noted in school attachment and success, particularly among marginalized racial/ethnic groups.
- Social and Community Context: Social cohesion, discrimination, and peer interactions were significant determinants, influencing behaviors such as substance use and educational outcomes.
- Neighborhood and Built Environment: Access to resources and exposure to violence or crime varied by neighborhood, impacting health behaviors and outcomes.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners, these findings underscore the importance of adopting a holistic approach when working with adolescents. Here are some actionable strategies:
- Incorporate SDOH in Assessments: Regularly evaluate the social and environmental factors affecting your clients. This can guide more tailored interventions.
- Advocate for Policy Changes: Engage in advocacy efforts to address systemic issues such as poverty and educational inequities that disproportionately affect minority youth.
- Collaborate with Community Resources: Build partnerships with local organizations to provide comprehensive support that addresses both health and social needs.
- Promote Inclusive Practices: Create environments that foster inclusivity and reduce discrimination, particularly in educational settings.
Encouraging Further Research
While this review provides a comprehensive overview, further research is needed to explore the causal relationships between SDOH and health outcomes. Practitioners are encouraged to participate in or support studies that investigate these dynamics further.
To delve deeper into the findings, I recommend reading the original research paper: Racial/ethnic differences in social determinants of health and health outcomes among adolescents and youth ages 10–24 years old: a scoping review.
