A safe environment for growth is the core of young people’s wellbeing
A young person has the best opportunity for growth, development, and wellbeing when they feel accepted and safe. However, a safe everyday life and a sense of appreciation do not arise by chance; they are built through the atmosphere created together by the home, school, services, and society.
Young people’s world is more open, but norms can still be burdensome
Diversity is now a more visible part of young people’s daily lives than before, and more young people dare to express themselves openly.
“Fortunately, nowadays there is much less homo- or transphobia.” (young person, 18 years)
At THL, we monitor young people’s wellbeing through the School Health Promotion Study, and through it we have also gathered information about the experiences of young people belonging to gender and sexual minorities. Deviating from the norm can still be a burden. If a young person’s experience of their own gender, body, or sexual orientation does not correspond to the expectations of their environment, feelings of uncertainty and exclusion may arise. A young person may wonder whether they are acceptable as they are.
Experiences of being “wrong” may be reinforced by various everyday situations, such as assumptions of heterosexuality, misgendering, bullying, or discrimination. These can erode the sense of safety and make identity formation more difficult.
Young people’s wellbeing is shaped by many factors, such as health, social relationships, and identity. The accumulation of stressors can intensify negative effects. Young people belonging to minorities may experience minority stress, which can weaken wellbeing. This stress is related to the ongoing strain caused by perceived prejudice and discrimination.
Belonging to a minority in itself does not cause distress; it can also be a source of strength. All young people’s wellbeing is supported by having a safe environment in which to grow and develop, as well as the freedom to explore their own body and gender without external pressure to conform to norms.
Societal debate is reflected in young people’s experiences
There is an ongoing societal debate about the rights of minorities. This is important, but the tone of the discussion matters. When the right to be oneself is questioned, the effects extend directly into young people’s everyday lives.
During adolescence, the experience of being accepted and belonging to a group are core factors of wellbeing. If a young person feels that they are not accepted in their immediate environment or in society, the consequences can be deeply hurtful and may increase loneliness.
Responsibility for promoting equality must not be left to young people themselves. Adults and societal actors have a key role in building a safe and respectful atmosphere.
Let’s support young people’s wellbeing and space to grow together
Adults working with young people have a significant opportunity to strengthen young people’s sense of safety and acceptance.
“In physical education classes, we are divided into girls and boys, which feels stupid when there are more than two genders.” (young person, 11 years)
“Adults who have taken the time to learn about these issues are safe.” (young person, 18 years)
The means to support wellbeing are largely the same for all young people:
- Update your knowledge and skills. There is a lot of information available about gender and sexual diversity. You don’t need to know everything, but the willingness to learn and understand is essential.
- Be a safe and present adult. A young person needs adults with whom they can be themselves. The experience of being valued strengthens wellbeing.
- Promote dialogue and listen. Open discussion and genuine listening help to understand young people’s experiences. Young people have valuable knowledge about their own everyday lives.
- Create a non-discriminatory environment. Language, assumptions, and practices matter. Taking diversity into account and addressing discrimination are key actions.
- Ensure space for growth. Young people need time and space to build their identity without haste or pressure.
- Ensure access to support. It is the responsibility of adults to recognize the need for support and ensure that a young person receives help in time.
Ultimately, it is about a simple thing: young people want to be encountered as themselves.
“I hope people don’t make a big deal out of me and that I’m treated just normally, like other people.” (young person, 11 years)
Young people’s wellbeing is shaped by everyday actions — from the experience that everyone is accepted, valued, and safe.
Read more
Liikunnan riemu kuuluu myös sateenkaari-ihmisille (in Finnish, THL-blog)
Sateenkaarinuoret tarvitsevat tukea elinympäristössä ja palveluissa (in Finnish, THL-blog)