Introduction
The intersection of human rights and the psychology of children, youth, and family highlights the crucial role of mental well-being in ensuring the full realization of children’s rights. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) asserts that every child has the right to survival, development, and protection from harm (United Nations, 1989). Psychological research emphasizes that adverse childhood experiences, such as neglect, abuse, or discrimination, can have long-term effects on mental health, affecting cognitive development, emotional regulation, and social relationships (Felitti et al., 1998). Family dynamics also play a pivotal role in shaping a child’s psychological well-being, as supportive parenting and secure attachments contribute to resilience and positive development (Bowlby, 1969). In this context, upholding human rights—such as access to education, healthcare, and protection from violence—directly supports the psychological health of children and youth, fostering their ability to thrive in society. Addressing mental health within the framework of human rights ensures that policies and interventions are not only compassionate but also legally and ethically grounded in principles of dignity and equity (World Health Organization, 2019).
References:
- Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and loss: Vol. 1. Attachment. Basic Books.
- Felitti, V. J., Anda, R. F., Nordenberg, D., Williamson, D. F., Spitz, A. M., Edwards, V., Koss, M. P., & Marks, J. S. (1998). Relationship of childhood abuse and household dysfunction to many of the leading causes of death in adults: The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 14(4), 245-258.
- United Nations. (1989). Convention on the Rights of the Child. Retrieved from https://www.ohchr.org
- World Health Organization. (2019). Guidelines on mental health promotive and preventive interventions for adolescents. WHO.
Bibliography
Human Rights &
Children / Youth / Families
- Best Interests of the Child and the Right to Inclusive Education
- Child Rights and Why They Matter
- Discourses of Childism: How Covid-19 has Unveiled Prejudice, Discrimination and Social Injustice Against Children in the Everyday
- Politics of Children’s Rights and Representation
- Promoting Global ECD Top‐Down and Bottom‐Up
- Strengthening Sexual and Reproductive Health Education for Children and Adolescents in China
- The Future of Children’s Human Rights: A Call for Peace
Intersection of Human Rights, Psychology &
Children/Youth/Families
Other Resources
Children / Youth / Families
Organization: Youth For Human Rights
United Nations: Office of Human Rights and Youth: https://www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/Youth/Pages/HROfYouth.aspx
Youth for Human Rights Project: https://noored.ee/meist/tegevused/noored-inimoiguste-eest/human-rights-education/
UNICEF: Voices of Youth: https://www.voicesofyouth.org/topic/human-rights