Another thing that we noticed in our local congregation's youth some time ago was the poor outcome of many who left. Of course the spin the JWs put on it is "that's what happens when you leave Jehovah . . . "
Another possibility that we felt was probable is that these poor kids have been denied the usual supports and encouragement offered to youth: sports, extracurricular groups, regular socialization with peers, college-bound, etc. Then all of a sudden they leave at 17 or 18, and there's nothing for them to fall back on, so they don't fare as well, for a while.
So sad.
Pat