Predictors of depression in street youth

The extent of depression and other psychiatric problems among adolescent "street" and homeless populations is largely undocumented. Using a sample of 145 adolescent street youth interviewed in Toronto, Canada, this study attempted to extend the knowledge of street youth by examining the association of depression with alcohol and drug use and related problems, social supports, self-esteem, family background, and alcohol and drug use among family members. The results indicated that the best predictors of depression among street youth were self-esteem and length of time spent in a hostel.