Study finds that experiencing discrimination is contributing to low levels of life satisfaction.
Over seven in 10 of those aged 17 in Ireland reported that they have experienced some type of discrimination at least a few times a year (stock)(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
New research from the ESRI reveals that over seven in 10 of those aged 17 in Ireland reported that they have experienced some type of discrimination at least a few times a year.
It found that at the age of 17, most of the group who had perceived discrimination felt that this was related to various factors such as age (63%), followed by appearance (54%) and gender (40%).
The perceived discrimination was assessed using the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS). The EDS measures how often participants perceive day-to-day experiences such as being “treated with less courtesy or respect” or being “threatened or harassed”.
The report finds that the average EDS score decreases between the ages of 17 and 25. This proportion reduces to two in three adults at the age of 25.
It discovered gender to be the most mentioned ground for discrimination at 25. 41% of those surveyed perceive it as discrimination.
Research found at the age of 25, similar to 17, young people who identify as lesbian/gay, bisexual, asexual and questioning (LGBA+) have higher discrimination scores.
The research also found that those who reported having experienced discrimination at age 25 had lower levels of life satisfaction, subjective general health and self-esteem.
It also revealed that higher perceived discrimination is associated with a higher probability of experiencing depression symptoms and reporting levels of dangerous alcohol consumption.
Norma Foley, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, said: “This study highlights that many young people feel singled out or unfairly treated, particularly those with disabilities, those who identify as LGBTIQ+ and those from minority ethnic backgrounds.
“This is a worrying finding, and one that this Government is working to change. My department is currently implementing a suite of national strategies aimed at advancing equality, inclusion, and human rights.”
These findings are based on data collected by the Growing Up in Ireland study that interviewed young people born in 1998 when they were 17 and 25 years old.
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