Depression in Adolescence: Its Relationships to Assertion and Various Aspects of Self-Image.

Despite numerous reports of adolescent depression, little empirical research exists. The study investigated the nature of adolescent depression by administering the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and a series of self-report measures to 568 high school students. Findings consistent with the adult depression literature included significant positive relationships between depression and all measures of maladjustment. Subjects who reported more depression reported more overall maladjustment. A positive relationship between depression and assertion was also obtained which is consistent with the adult depression literature. Those reporting more depression reported more assertion. The most important predictor of depression was body and self-image. These results are discussed as supporting the theory that depression exists in adolescence and while possessing certain unique characteristics it is highly similar to depression in adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Clinical Child Psychology is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)