Family dinners lead to better mentalhealth among teens

 Regular family dinners contribute to good mental health in adolescents, a new study has revealed. 

    Family meal times are a measurable signature of social exchanges in the home that benefit adolescents' well-being. 
    "Frequent family dinners related to fewer emotional and behavioural problems, greater emotional well-being, more trusting and helpful behaviours towards others and higher life satisfaction," researcher Frank Elgar said. 
    The study, conducted by researchers of Queen's University, examined the relation between frequency of family dinners and positive and negative aspects of mental health. 
    The researchers used a national sample of 26,069 adolescents aged between 11 and 15 years. They found the same positive effects of family meal time on the mental health of the young subjects, regardless of gender, age or family affluence. 
    "We were surprised to find such consistent effects on every outcome we studied," Elgar said. 
    "From having no dinners together to eating together seven nights a week, each additional dinner related to significantly better mental health," he added.
    Family mealtimes are opportunities for open family interactions which present teaching opportunities for parents. 
    ANI