Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026

A New Method for Inducing a Depression-Like Behavior in Rats
Published on: February 22, 2018
Psychological factors linked to self-reported depression symptoms in late adolescence
Melanie Smith1, Rachel Calam, Catherine Bolton
1University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
Background:
The likelihood of developing depression increases throughout adolescence.
Aims:
Understanding the relative contribution of psychosocial and cognitive variables to depressive symptoms during the transitional stage of late adolescence should increase the scope for effective prevention and intervention.
Method:
The Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment (IPPA), Adolescents' Cognitive Style (ACSQ), Relationship Rating Scales (RRS), The Life Events Checklist, and the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) were completed by 140 adolescents aged 16-18 years.
Results:
Alienation from parents and peers, helpless attributional style, gender, and perceived criticism from teachers contributed significantly to variance in scores for depressive symptoms. Negative self-inference and helpless attributions moderated the relationship between perceived criticism and depression in male participants.
Conclusions:
Different approaches to intervention may be more successful for males and females.
Related Concept Videos
Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Sources of Self-Esteem I: Family Experience
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Self-Discrepancy and Its Effects
Self-Esteem
