CATS: Childhood to Adolescence Transition Study

The CATS study is a unique longitudinal study of children in metropolitan Melbourne as they approach and transition through adolescence. The study began in 2012 and follows over 1200 children from grade 3 (8-9 years of age) through adolescence. The children are assessed once every year. The study also collected information from teachers through primary school, and parents through to Wave 6 (year 8; 13-14 years). The main focus of the study is on the health and emotional development of children during the middle years of school with the aim of improving our understanding of the many influences that effect the health and emotional adjustment of children as they approach their teens. The study looks at the experiences of children and their families, their changing social context as they move into secondary school and their reactions to the biological changes of puberty. The information collected as part of this large study will help us identify when and how to promote the best health and emotional adjustment in pre-teens.