The Fairfax County Youth Survey is a detailed, anonymous, and optional survey given every year to students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12. It looks at behaviors, experiences, and other factors that affect the health and well-being of young people in Fairfax County. The results give an overview of the county’s youth and help measure how well the community is supporting healthy choices for teens.
The Fairfax County Youth Survey asks about risky behaviors, mental health, physical health, and safety. Topics include alcohol use, depression, bullying, eating habits, illegal drugs, stress, harassment, obesity, misuse of prescription drugs, extracurricular activities, screen time, and more. Students also answer questions about positive aspects of their lives, their activities, and protective factors that help keep them healthy and safe.
The Fairfax County Youth Survey shows that when kids and teens have 3 or more positive, protective factors in their lives, they are better at handling stress, making good decisions, and building healthy habits. To learn more about the protective factors that help kids succeed—like having adults they can talk to or joining after-school activities—click the link below.
The Youth Survey is a joint effort between Fairfax County Government and Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS). Parents can preview the survey using the links above. They can also read the parent letters and, if they want, fill out an opt-out form at the link below (when available) to excuse their child from taking the survey.
