Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children

The Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children (HBSC) study is a continuing, cross-national survey conducted in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe. The survey is done every four years in more than 40 different countries.

Table of Content

• HSBC Study Overview
• HBSC Publications and Resources

How does it work?

The HBSC data is collected through school-based self-report surveys among 11-, 13- and 15-year-olds. This age group represents the life-period where physical and emotional changes take place and when important life and career decisions are beginning to be made.

The HBSC study aims to gain new insight and increased understanding into the health, well-being, and health behaviours of young people and their social contexts, especially within the school environment.

The Canadian HBSC survey is funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada and is carried out by a research team from Queen's University led by Drs. William Pickett and John Freeman. It is the only national-level school-based health promotion database for this age range in Canada.

What information will I find here?

This section will take you to detailed information outlining the objectives and specifics of the HBSC study. You will also find factsheets, reports and publications regarding the study from Canada and other countries, as well as tools and resources covering the subject.

Quick Links:

• The health of Canadian youth: Findings from the health behaviour in school-aged children study (2020) (Cdn Report)
• Health Behaviour in School-aged Children in Canada: Focus on Relationships (2015) (Cdn Report)
• The Health of Canada's Young People: a mental health focus (2011) (Cdn Report)
• Healthy Settings for Young People in Canada (2008) (Cdn report)
• Young people in Canada: Their Health and Well Being (2004) (Cdn report)
• International Reports