Perceptions of Emotional Distress in Adolescents and Adults in Bogotá

Abstract

Objective Emotional distress in youth has been related to a deterioration in quality of life. Therefore, this study aims to understand the perception of adolescents, young adults and professionals working with young people about the factors that contribute to the development of emotional distress in young people in the city of Bogota (Colombia). Methods Six focus groups were conducted (2 with adolescents, 2 with young adults and 2 with professionals who have experience working with youth). A thematic analysis was conducted. Results Participants describe that emotional distress in youth is related to feelings of frustration, stress, and fear of being judged, especially due to academic issues, work or due to parental pressure, the desire to be accepted by peers, and conflicting interpersonal relationships. The perception of professionals seems to be linked to a social construction of youth as a stage characterized by the exacerbation of the emotional. Conclusions The participants’ perception of the factors that contribute to emotional distress in youth reflects different situations in the environments in which they live their daily lives such as personal, school, family, work and peer relationships; and these are characterized by feelings such as worry, stress, misunderstanding and anxiety.