Children’s well-being is shaped not only by academic demands, but also by how they cope with uncertainty and the support they receive at home.
Supported by the Lee Kum Kee Family Foundation, Caritas Hong Kong and our Department collaborated on the Study on Hong Kong Children’s Subjective Well-being. Drawing on questionnaires from more than 5,200 Primary 4 to Primary 6 students, together with focus group interviews, the study explores children’s experiences of school, family life and growing up. Dr. Law Yee-man, Moon, Senior Lecturer in our Department, is the Principal Investigator.
The study found that 66% of surveyed children feel overwhelmed by assessments, tests and examinations at school. Meanwhile, 59.4% found it difficult to cope with unexpected events and uncertainty about the future . Some children link their sense of self-worth closely to academic performance, and may lower their hopes for the future to protect themselves from disappointment. Online games and short-form video platforms can also offer some children temporary relief from pressure and a greater sense of autonomy.
The findings show that a stable, supportive home can help children feel more confident about the future and better able to manage pressure. Alongside academic progress, it is equally important for children to feel heard, understood and supported at home.
The study has received coverage and public attention from a range of local media outlets, including Sing Tao Headline, i-Cable News and Ming Pao.
Photo credit: Caritas Hong Kong
