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Depression in early adolescence: relation to externalising and internalising behaviour
1School of Psychology, University of New England, Australia.
Perceptual and Motor Skills
|July 7, 2000
Summary
This study explored how gender roles influence adolescent depression and behavior. Findings suggest boys adapt to depression through externalizing behaviors, while girls do not show a similar pattern for internalizing behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Adolescent Psychology
Background:
- Depression is a significant mental health concern in adolescents.
- Adolescent behavior is often categorized into externalizing and internalizing patterns.
- Sex-role stereotyping may influence how adolescents express and cope with depression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the moderating role of sex-role stereotyping in the relationship between depression and adolescent behavior.
- To investigate if adolescents adapt to depression in gender-appropriate ways.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 151 adolescents (79 boys, 72 girls) participated.
- Data were collected using the Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale, Achenbach Teacher Report Form, and Australian Sex-Role Scale.
- Regression analysis was employed to analyze the data.
Main Results:
- The relationship between depression and behavior differed between boys and girls.
- Sex-role stereotyping moderated the association between depression and externalizing behavior in boys.
- The hypothesis was not supported for girls and internalizing behavior.
Conclusions:
- Adolescent responses to depression may be influenced by gender-specific behavioral patterns.
- Findings highlight the complex interplay between depression, behavior, and gender roles in adolescence.
- Further research is needed to understand gender differences in adolescent mental health and coping mechanisms.