Is Japanese wellbeing low? Let’s pay attention to the well-being of our children!
In recent years, we have heard about the low level of wellbeing of Japanese children in the news and on social media. It is regrettable that despite their economic affluence, many children in Japan have low levels of happiness and self-esteem. It is important for parents to be aware of their child’s wellbeing at school and at home. In this article, we will introduce ways that parents can become aware of their child’s wellbeing at home.
What is Wellbeing?
Well-being directly translates to “a good state of being”. It is used to mean “a state of physical and mental health and happiness,” and has been emphasized in the SDGs. In addition, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has stated that in order for children to be active in 2030 and beyond, it is important for them to achieve wellbeing, set goals independently, and acquire the ability to take responsible action while reflecting on their own actions.
Is the wellbeing of Japanese children low?
There is extensive research available on the low level of wellbeing among children in Japan. For example, UNICEF has conducted a multi-layered and multi-faceted analysis of children’s behavior around the world and Japanese children rank 37th out of 38 countries in mental wellbeing and first in physical wellbeing. In addition, according to the “Survey on Attitudes of Children and Youth (2048)” conducted by the Cabinet Office, 45.6% of all children answered that they “like themselves,” while 49.9% of children negatively perceive themselves, saying they “strongly feel that they are not useful”.
How can parents/adults pay attention to their child’s wellbeing?
Children’s independence is the key to realizing their wellbeing. It is important for parents and adults to consider whether they are imposing their values and driving their actions on their child without his/her permission and understanding. In countries with high levels of happiness, children’s self-determination is respected from an early age. They value opportunities for children to think for themselves, and adults respect this.
In addition, the number of places where children feel comfortable is proportional to their level of happiness. Recently, in Japan, we have seen a decrease in the amount of time children have to spend playing with their friends after school and thinking and acting independently with other children.
With the Japanese economy failing, some adults may be unaware of their own low wellbeing. Although wellbeing does not necessarily equate to economic wealth, it is important to reconsider the origin of happiness in our daily lives. Focusing on the joy of thinking, learning, sharing and recognizing each other will help improve our wellbeing.
