Prax Kinderpsychol Kinderpsychiatr. 2025 Nov;74(7):562-586. doi: 10.13109/prkk.2025.74.7.562.
ABSTRACT
Attachment and Psychological Distress in Adolescents from Schools and Care Practices During and After the Covid-19 Pandemic The COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on the mental health of children and adolescents. Internalizing symptoms such as anxiety and depression emerged early on, particularly among those with high pre-pandemic vulnerability. This study investigates the development of psychological difficulties (internalizing, externalizing, and social problems) among adolescents in rural areas after returning to in-person schooling, comparing a non-clinical school-based sample with a clinical sample from child and adolescent mental health services. The study examines whether symptoms persist over time, the role of attachment quality, and the potential buffering effect of early therapeutic intervention. At two time points, 46 adolescents (M_T1age = 14.65 years, SD = 1.08; M_T2age = 16.05 years, SD = 1.24) were assessed using the Adolescent Separation Anxiety Interview (ASAI) and the Youth Self Report (YSR/ 11-18). Findings indicate that participants were highly affected by pandemic-related measures such as lockdowns, homeschooling, and social isolation. Adolescents with insecure-preoccupied attachment reported the highest symptoms. Symptoms persisted beyond the end of public health restrictions. In contrast, connection to a care network emerged as a resilience factor. These results underscore the urgent need for expanded and more targeted support for youth in coping with crisis-related stress.
PMID:41287908 | DOI:10.13109/prkk.2025.74.7.562
