The effects of data disclosure on adolescent reporting of depression: a school-hosted depression screening

This study aimed to examine the effects of data disclosure on adolescent's willingness to report depression.

This observational study delved into the impact of data disclosure on adolescents' ( in grades 7 to 9) willingness to disclose depression assessed with with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) in a middle school setting. We measured students' depression levels and their preferences for confidentiality regarding depression screening results through self-administered electronic questionnaires.

A total of 2219 student responses were included in this study (47.1% female). Notably, those students who opted for complete confidentiality exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of depression (OR = 2.56; 95% CI = 1.92-3.41; P < 0.001). Furthermore, within the subset of students preferring partial confidentiality, those who wished to conceal their depression screening results from their parents displayed a significantly elevated prevalence of depression (OR = 2.20; 95% CI = 1.54-3.14; P < 0.001).

Our findings underscore the critical importance of cultivating a child-friendly screening environment that encourages children and adolescents to feel comfortable and forthcoming in providing honest responses. By doing so, we can enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of depression screening efforts, thereby promoting the well-being of our youth.