Xu Luqin, Director of Clinical Psychology, told reporters that today's youth exhibit poor resilience to setbacks, with alarmingly high rates of adolescent depression. Recently, an increasing number of girls have resorted to self-harm by cutting their wrists to vent emotions—a trend demanding urgent attention from parents and families.
70% of Depressed Adolescents Exhibit Violent Behavior
"The initial signs of adolescent depression include academic decline, learning difficulties, withdrawal from peers, and violent tendencies at home,"Xu Lüqin explained that her clinical observations show many adolescents don't appear overtly unhappy when depressed. Instead, 70% exhibit outward aggression, often lashing out physically over minor issues. However, they typically direct this violence inward toward loved ones or themselves rather than others. This behavior isn't limited to boys; even girls perceived as "good girls" by their parents can display such aggression.
She noted that the rising number of girls cutting their wrists stems from internal anguish, with emotions directed inward. She attributes this to children's poor resilience—their sense of self-worth is built on external validation, making it fragile. Thus, a minor argument with peers, a slight disagreement, a teacher's criticism, or a disappointing test result can trigger depression.
Give Children Opportunities to Build Confidence Through Problem-Solving
"Many parents attribute their children's illnesses to external factors—blaming teachers or peers—but I disagree,"Xu Lüqin told reporters that many parents today strive to create ideal living conditions for their children, fulfilling every demand big or small, which leaves children lacking exposure to setbacks from a young age. In reality, those who have experienced setbacks develop stronger character. Having overcome challenges, they think, 'If I managed this, what else can't I handle?' This builds their confidence, and whenever they face pressure or setbacks, they feel equipped to handle them.
Today's children lack such opportunities to build confidence, and parental encouragement often amounts to empty praise like "You're so smart" or "You're so pretty," which fails to help them navigate real challenges."Therefore, even small household chores should be given to children. By handling specific tasks, they develop the awareness that 'I can manage this.' This way, when faced with bigger challenges, they will tackle them independently." She explained to the reporter that cultivating children's ability to solve problems requires starting with small matters, gradually helping them build their own stable value system.