Survey Finds Canadian Youth are Lacking Key Social and Coping Skills, Causing Concern

December 13, 2024 TruthUSA

According to a Scouts Canada survey, Canadians are worried that young people between the ages of 10 and 21 lack essential life skills and coping mechanisms necessary for future success.

The survey of 1,000 Canadians highlighted five main factors contributing to what they see as a deficiency in today’s youth’s ability to cope. Issues such as social media, excessive screen time leading to stunted development, social and peer pressure, video games, and overprotective parenting were at the forefront.

An alarming 91.2 percent of Canadians expressed concerns about the lack of soft skills in kids aged 10-21. Soft skills are essential behavioral and interpersonal skills needed for success in almost every profession.

As a result, 34.3 percent of respondents admitted to lacking confidence in the youth’s ability to secure employment in the future or thrive as adults.

Furthermore, almost three-quarters of those surveyed believed that Generations X, Millennial, and Gen Z parents have been too lenient on their children, causing the younger generation to miss out on crucial life skills like managing stress and engaging in meaningful conversations.

Canadians also noted a lack of confidence, leadership abilities, problem-solving skills, basic manners, gratitude, and social skills among today’s youth.

Pandemic Impact

A majority of respondents attributed some of the blame for young people’s social skills challenges to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly 95 percent of those surveyed believed that growing up during the pandemic has put kids at a disadvantage.

A report from The Royal Society of Canada echoed this sentiment, highlighting the pandemic’s negative impact on youth development.

The Ottawa-based non-profit organization stated, “Virtually all aspects of children’s development have been impacted, especially in key areas of skill development crucial for optimal growth and well-being.”

Statistics Canada data revealed that pandemic-related school closures increased screen time and decreased access to structured physical activities that schools used to provide.

This situation led to feelings of isolation and anxiety among many children. Statistical data indicated that 64 percent of young people aged 15 to 24 experienced worsened mental health during the pandemic, with 5 percent of children aged five to 17 diagnosed with anxiety disorders, as reported by StatCan.

A study from the Public Health Agency of Canada corroborated these findings.

The report noted, “Social isolation resulting from lockdowns and other societal changes during the pandemic led to a significant rise in mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, resulting in increased outpatient and emergency department visits for mental health issues among youths under 18.”

The study highlighted a greater impact on young females, with over 52,000 girls aged between 10 and 17 experiencing mental health-related hospitalizations between April 2018 and March 2022, compared to around 21,000 hospitalizations for boys in the same age group during that period.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Scouts Canada’s Kathryn Ashby expressed confidence in today’s youth, stating, “We believe that Canada’s youth aged 10-21 have shown remarkable resilience and potential despite the unique challenges they have faced due to COVID and technological advancements. With the right guidance and opportunities, these kids can thrive and build their confidence.”

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