SMU SOE Seminar Series (October 1, 2025): School Milestones Impact on Child Mental Health in Taiwan

TOPIC:

ABSTRACT

We examine child mental health treatment surrounding four school milestones in Taiwan: Primary and middle school entry and high stakes testing for high school and college entry. Given age cutoffs for school entry, we compare August-born to September-born children. August-born reach milestones one year earlier, allowing identification of each milestone’s effect. Entry into primary and middle school increases in mental health prescribing, especially for ADHD and depression. Middle school entry also increases prescribing of anti-anxiety and antipsychotic medications. Use of psychiatric medications falls sharply following high-stakes tests. Effects are stronger in counties where parents and children have higher educational aspirations.

Click here to view the CV.
Click here to view the paper.