The worst age to move a child is typically during early adolescence, specifically between the ages of 12 and 14. This age group is particularly susceptible to the negative impacts of moving, including an increased risk of suicide, violent crime, substance abuse, and unnatural mortality. Research published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine has found that children in early adolescence are at the highest risk for developing mental health and social problems following a residential move.
Moving during childhood can disrupt a child's sense of stability and familiarity, leading to feelings of anxiety and stress. This is particularly concerning for children who are already socially anxious or have difficulty making friends. Additionally, children may struggle to adapt to a new school, build new friendships, and cope with the physiological and developmental transitions that come with adolescence.
The reasons behind the increased risk of negative outcomes among adolescents include the complex social environment of early adolescence, which can make it challenging for children to adjust. Moreover, the research highlights the need for further quantitative rigor, suggesting that the study may underestimate the true extent of the risks associated with moving during adolescence.
While the study focuses on moves across Danish municipal boundaries, which typically require a child to change schools, the researchers argue that this fact goes a long way toward explaining the results. They suggest that relocated adolescents may face a double stress of adapting to an alien environment, a new school, and building new friendships and social networks, while simultaneously coping with fundamental biological and developmental transitions.
The implications of these findings for parents are clear. Moving a child during adolescence should be approached with caution and thorough planning. Parents should aim to minimize the disruption to their child's life by providing support and reassurance throughout the process. It is also important for parents to be aware of the signs of depression in their child and seek professional help if necessary.
In conclusion, the study emphasizes that moving a child during early adolescence is a highly disruptive experience that can have long-term consequences for their mental health and social well-being. By understanding the risks associated with moving during this period, parents can take steps to mitigate these impacts and support their child through the challenges of搬家.
