Child and Adolescent Development and Health
Early influences last a lifetime
Early influences on child and adolescent health significantly impact health and development throughout life.
The first years of a child’s life influence their behaviour and physical activity patterns later on.
Lifestyle factors such as excessive screen use, not enough play and limited exercise can have harmful effects, not simply to a child’s physical health but to their mental wellbeing.
Our Child and Adolescent Development and Health Discipline looks at the years of a child’s life – from early childhood through to teens – to uncover the best environments for young people and how to implement programs to facilitate healthy lifestyles for lifelong health and wellbeing.
Our research engages stakeholders to form real-world policies and programs, while providing research training and experience for undergraduate and postgraduate students seeking careers in child and adolescent health and development.
News
Two thirds of children do not do enough physical activity
Led by UWA, the largest global study to examine physical activity in children aged between two and five years old has found 66 per cent of children are not getting the nationally recommended three hours of daily physical activity needed for their growth and development.
Read moreUWA study: a neighbourhood’s best friend
Researchers from The University of Western Australia have conducted the largest international study to be completed on the social benefits of pet ownership and found that owning a pet is not only important for our well-being but important for social connectedness in our neighbourhood.
Read moreOwning pets good for your wellbeing
UWA research weighs in on having animals in the house has been proved to significantly improve physical and mental wellbeing.
Read moreCollaboration
The impact of research around vulnerable population groups is elevated by close relationships with industry, philanthropic and community partners.
If you have an issue that requires specialised research and development expertise, or you would like to develop a joint research arrangement with UWA, the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences' research team can help.
Contact them at [email protected].
