Socioeconomic differences and global trends in youth wellbeing and emotional distress in 165 countries and territories

Abstract

Social stratifications in youth wellbeing are a concern for social policy. Using data from the Gallup World Poll (2009–2022), we examined time trends and income differences in youth wellbeing and their associations with area-level income and income inequality. Results showed that a growing proportion of youth have experienced emotional distress in recent years, and this trend disproportionately affected youth at lower incomes. Higher income inequality relates to lower life satisfaction and larger income differences in life satisfaction. Socioeconomic inequality in youth wellbeing underscores the need for coordinated policy actions that reduce economic inequality and its impacts on youth wellbeing.