Examining the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health in adolescents

The study investigates the psychological effects of pandemic lockdowns on young and older adolescents, highlighting differences in mood responses between the two age groups. Utilizing a moderation-mediation analysis, it finds that for younger adolescents (12-14 years), coping strategies significantly moderate the relationship between lockdown duration and social support, while social support does not mediate mood. In contrast, for older adolescents (15-18 years), social support serves as a key mediator without significant moderation by coping. The research underscores the need for age-specific interventions during such restrictions.