PhD Scientific Days 2026

Poster Session 2.K - Mental Health Sciences

Psychiatric Symptoms and Disorders Among Roma Children and Adolescents

Name of the presenter

Gueth, Eszter

Institute/workplace of the presenter

Semmelweis University Mental Health Sciences Division

Authors

Eszter Gueth¹
1: Semmelweis University Mental Health Sciences Division

Text of the abstract

Introduction. Although previous research has shown that suicide is more prevalent among Roma adults compared to the non-Roma adults, and the most common risk factors of suicide are psychiatric disorders, yet psychiatric symptoms and disorders remain an under-examined area among Roma children and adolescents.
Aims. The aim of this research is: 1) to explore the psychiatric symptoms and disorders of Roma children and adolescents and to identify the underlying issues and potential unique difficulties. 2) to explore experiences of discrimination and the role of Roma identity, from the perspective of mental health. 3) to support the development of mental disorders prevention and intervention programmes of Roma children and adolescents.
Methods. The research has received ethical approval (BM/17802-3/2025). Participants include Roma children and adolescents (age: 6-18, n = 100) from diverse residence and socioeconomic backgrounds, alongside a matched non-Roma control group. A mixed-methods approach is applied: psychiatric symptoms are assessed by quantitative questionnaires (Children’s Depression Inventory, Invertar Lebensqualität Kindern und Jugendlichen, Deliberate Self Harm Inventory, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview for Children and Adolescents) and qualitative interviews explore lived experience and and contextual factors.
Expected results. We hypothesise that both externalising and internalising symptoms are higher among Roma children and adolescents compared to their non-Roma peers. If symptom prevalence remains higher after matching socioeconomic status, that could be explained by challenges related to Roma identity.
Conclusion. This study provides novel insights into the mental health of Roma children and adolescents. Understanding their mental health challenges can contribute to a new therapeutic approach. Findings may offer a basis for developing targeted prevention and intervention programmes.
Funding. This study received no external funding.