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Growing Up in New Zealand,
As many New Zealanders struggle to understand their teenagers in the 21st century, the Growing Up in New Zealand study promises comprehensive insights into the lives of our young people. The study's findings will ultimately inform policy with in-depth answers provided both in the medium and long term.
Led by The University of Auckland and underpinned by government funding the Growing Up in New Zealand study aims to refocus ineffective strategies and reap benefits for all our children.
“New Zealand needs to take a stronger policy focus on child poverty and child health, especially during the early years when it is easier to make a long-term difference,” says Mr Dominic Richardson, Co-author of the OECD’s first ever report on children.
Of the 24 wealthiest OECD countries, New Zealand has the highest rate of child deaths due to accidents and injuries, the second lowest immunisation rates, the highest suicide rate and a greater proportion of our children are growing up in relative poverty compared to other countries.
Following some 7,000 children born in 2009 and 2010 the study will identify problematic outcomes in our newest generation, but will also highlight what is working for our current population and the various cultures within it and how we can build on those successes.
“Teenage injuries and deaths are of particular concern but we may find factors that contribute to this stem from areas where we are failing our children from an early age,” says Growing Up in New Zealand Research Director Dr Susan Morton.
The potential impacts of the study to not only inform policy but also to save money through effective and focused initiatives is huge. “It’s incredibly insightful of the government to back a population study that is long term, reflects cultural diversity and includes the voice of the child’s father,” says Dr Susan Morton. “We will look at all influencing factors on the child’s life including culture, community and approaches to parenting.”
Professor Gluckman, the Prime Minister’s chief science advisor has said that “urgent research is needed to understand what strategies might be best in terms of child-rearing, education, social welfare and justice to improve the passage of young people through this difficult period.” He said adolescence was a complex issue and there would be no “quick fixes”. Growing Up in New Zealand is part of the long term solution.
For more details, visit: http://www.growingup.co.nz/