Depression among Early Adolescents and its Association with Risk and Protective Factors

Purpose: To examine depression and its association with risk and protective factors among early adolescents. Background: While depression among high school age adolescents has been widely examined, little is published on early adolescents (age 10-13). Among older teens, depression is more common in girls and minority students and is associated with alcohol and drug use, early onset of sexual activity, and poor academic achievement. Methods: Participants include middle school students of an inner-ring metropolitan suburb (n=1098). The Youth Risk Behavior Survey and a DSM-IV criteria based depression scale were administered. Parents had the option of excluding their child from participation. Students responding positively to at least five depressive criteria are considered depressed for the purpose of this analysis. Results: Approximately 16% of middle school students reported five or more depressive criteria, with an additional 40% reporting one and four criteria. Girls and African American students reported significantly more depression. Depression did not differ by age, grade level, or socioeconomic status. Low academic achievement and stress were significantly related to depression. Prescription drug, alcohol and cigarette use were associated with depressive symptoms. Having at least one trusted adult or one trusted friend was associated with reduced depression rates. Pro-safety behaviors (wearing bike helmets and seatbelts) were associated with lower rates of depression. Conclusion: Depressive symptoms appear in early adolescence at rates similar to older adolescence and are associated with health undermining behaviors. Early detection and intervention may help prevent health and social consequences among these young teens.