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Sex differences in depression and explanatory style in children
S Nolen-Hoeksema1, J S Girgus, M E Seligman
1Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA.
Journal of Youth and Adolescence
|November 23, 2013
Summary
Boys show higher depression symptoms and maladaptive explanatory styles than girls in early childhood. This longitudinal study tracks these differences from third grade, noting specific symptoms like anhedonia.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Depression and explanatory style are crucial developmental factors.
- Understanding sex differences in childhood mental health is vital.
- Previous research indicates varying attributional styles between genders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sex differences in depression and explanatory style in elementary school children.
- To present initial findings from a longitudinal study.
- To explore the implications of these differences in childhood development.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study design tracking children over time.
- Data collection every six months starting from third grade.
- Assessment of depressive symptoms and explanatory style.
Main Results:
- Boys consistently reported more depressive symptoms than girls.
- Boys exhibited more symptoms of anhedonia and behavioral disturbance.
- Boys demonstrated significantly more maladaptive explanatory styles compared to girls.
Conclusions:
- Early childhood reveals distinct sex differences in depression and explanatory styles.
- Findings align with existing research on children's attributions.
- Further research is needed to understand pubertal shifts in these sex differences.
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