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Dutch youth acceptance of homosexuality declines sharply
A new Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study conducted by Utrecht University and the Trimbos Institute reveals a significant decline in the acceptance of homosexuality among Dutch youth between 2021 and 2025.
Among secondary school boys, the percentage of those with a positive attitude toward homosexuality dropped from 40% to 22%. For girls, the figure fell from 78% to 51%. Researchers noted that fewer students feel they can be openly themselves at school. The study also highlights a decline in school satisfaction, with increased reports of bullying and a more negative classroom atmosphere.
Additionally, the report indicates worsening mental health among girls. The percentage of girls experiencing emotional problems rose from 29% in 2017 to 43% in 2025, while behavioral problems increased from 12% to 21%. Researchers suggest that public debates regarding sexual diversity and the influence of online content may be contributing factors, though further research is required to establish direct causality.
Entities
Gonneke Stevens · Netherlands · Trimbos Institute · Utrecht University
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The percentage of girls in secondary education who view homosexuality positively fell from 78% to 51% between 2021 and 2025. www.dagelijksestandaard.nl · nieuws.nl · www.welingelichtekringen.nl
- [● 3 SOURCES] The percentage of girls experiencing emotional problems rose from 29% in 2017 to 43% in 2025. www.dagelijksestandaard.nl · nieuws.nl · www.welingelichtekringen.nl
- [● 3 SOURCES] Between 2017 and 2025, youth reported increased instances of bullying and a more negative view of the school atmosphere. www.dagelijksestandaard.nl · nieuws.nl · www.welingelichtekringen.nl
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Trimbos Institute and Utrecht University conducted the HBSC study on the mental well-being of Dutch youth. www.dagelijksestandaard.nl · nieuws.nl · www.welingelichtekringen.nl
- [● 3 SOURCES] The percentage of girls with behavioral problems increased from 12% to 21% between 2017 and 2025. www.dagelijksestandaard.nl · nieuws.nl · www.welingelichtekringen.nl
- [● 3 SOURCES] The percentage of boys in secondary education who view homosexuality positively dropped from 40% to 22% between 2021 and 2025. www.dagelijksestandaard.nl · nieuws.nl · www.welingelichtekringen.nl