Learning and psychological difficulties among non-engaged youth in Hong Kong

This study explored the relationship between having learning difficulties (LD), psychological problems, and being non-engaged among Hong Kong youths. Four hundred and twenty-eight youths, aged from 15 to 24 years, and who were either non-engaged youth (NEY) or at-risk of becoming non-engaged, were interviewed. Instruments consisted of a demographic questionnaire, an initial screening, and a follow-up in-depth investigation of learning and psychological difficul-ties. It was estimated that around 26 % of NEY subjects and around 42 % of at-risk subjects could be regarded as having a certain degree of LD. It can be roughly estimated that around 13.7 % of NEY subjects and around 22 % of at-risk subjects were experiencing psychological difficulties at the time this study was conducted. Major types of psychological problems encountered by non-engaged youths were mood, substance use, and anxiety disorders. They also appeared to be mostly affected by employment, financial, and relationship issues.