Are the Kids Alright? Comparing Mental Health of Homeschool Children to Peers in Traditional Schools

• In Event: Socio-Emotional Aspects of School Choice

Abstract

This study compared mental health indicators of homeschool children to those in traditional schools. Competing theories suggest homeschoolers may have strong mental health due to close relationships with parents and family, or their mental health may suffer due to isolation from peers. Little empirical work has examined this topic. Data come from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health. OLS regression on two dependent measures—mental health symptoms and mental health treatment—indicate homeschool children report significantly fewer negative mental health symptoms. There was no significant difference in frequency of mental health treatment.

Authors

• Dick M. Carpenter, University of Colorado

• Osasohan Agbonlahor, University of Colorado - Colorado Springs