Conclusions
This study expands upon the current literature by providing a more
in-depth perspective on the experiences of younger adolescents during
lockdown. However, the long-term effects of lockdown are unknown, and it
is important that further research continues, to identify potential
negative impacts and ways to overcome them. Even more pressing is the
need to educate schools and families on how to best communicate with
adolescents about the possible effects of lockdown on their wellbeing.
Finally, this study highlights the importance of providing information
and resources for young people and those who support them, aimed at
improving the impact of lockdown on adolescents’ health and behaviour;
for example, strategies to target psychosocial health (e.g., feelings of
loss or fear), including an educational component for teachers and
families. However, before this can be achieved, more research is needed
on both parents and teachers’ experiences of COVID-19 in England,
including how data collated on young people’s mental health has informed
the strategies and evidence that has been most effective within home and
school settings.