Adolescents’ Well-being and Human Rights During COVID-19 in Belize

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescents’ well-being and human rights in Belize. A quantitative descriptive survey research design was employed. Data were collected from 676 adolescents enrolled in schools in Belize. The online survey administered through Qualtrics had two sections: Demographics and Items to measure well-being and human rights within the home environment. The results revealed that adolescents' well-being and human rights within the home environments were adversely affected during the pandemic: mental health deteriorated, and household income loss, hunger, and verbal and physical abuse were experienced. Results also showed that females' well-being was more affected than that of males’. Pearson’s r correlation coefficients indicated a positive relationship between adolescents’ well-being and the human rights factors explored. This research can inform policymakers, educators, and parents on the importance of school and community programs that support adolescents’ well-being and human rights.