Course, Predictors, and Outcomes of Depressed Mood in a Cohort of Norwegian Adolescents Followed From Age 13 Into Adulthood Age 30

Abstract

This study used latent growth modeling to examine continuity and changes in depressed mood, predictors, and outcomes in a cohort of Norwegian adolescents followed from age 13 into adulthood age 30. First, the average development of depressed mood can be described by a slight increase in adolescence followed by a decrease in emerging adulthood. There were considerable individual differences in baseline level and rate of change in depressed mood, especially among females. Second, relationship with parents was associated with the stability component of depressed mood for both genders, as were father’s education for males. Third, a general trajectory of increasing levels of depressed mood was associated with lower probability of achievement of adulthood milestones and lower income and occupational status at age 30. Finally, both high levels of depressed mood at baseline and an increasing trajectory of depressed mood were associated with lower levels of life satisfaction at age 30.