Significant Predictors Of Depressive Symptoms Research Articles

Exploring the relationship between media use and depressive symptoms among gender diverse youth: findings of the Mental Health Days Study

BackgroundOver the past decades, media use has become a key aspect of young people’s daily lives, significantly shaping their social interactions, learning processes, and recreational pursuits. At the same time, healthcare professionals and researchers are increasingly concerned about the impact of media use on young people’s mental health. This concern is particularly relevant for gender diverse youth who may have distinct experiences with media that could impact their mental health uniquely compared to their peers, such as increased exposure to cyberbullying and negative content regarding their gender identity. This study aims to explore the associations between media use and depressive symptoms among youth and examine if gender moderates this association.MethodsThis study utilized a cross-sectional design involving a school-based sample of 8158 participants (Mage = 14.05 years, SD = 2.45, Ndiverse = 144) from Austria. Participants completed a survey assessing their media use and depressive symptoms using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Media use was measured by asking participants to report their daily usage in hours and minutes across various categories, including smartphone use, streaming services, social networks, and other media types. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine relationships between different forms of media use and depressive symptoms. Moderation analyses were performed using the PROCESS macro for SPSS to explore the role of gender.ResultsFor gender diverse youth, multiple regression analysis identified streaming services (β = 0.265, p = .005) and social networks (β = 0.189, p = .037) as significant predictors of depressive symptoms in gender diverse youth. Moderation analyses conducted with the entire sample showed that gender moderates the relationship between depressive symptoms and smartphone use (B = - 0.008, p = .014), with the effect being the most negative for gender diverse individuals.ConclusionThe findings underscore the complex relationship between media use and depressive symptoms among gender diverse youth, emphasizing the moderating role of gender. These results underline the need for gender-sensitive approaches in media literacy and mental health interventions. Stakeholders should be aware of risks and benefits of different media types to foster healthy media engagement.

Longitudinal Dynamic Relationships Between Videogame Use and Symptoms of Gaming Disorder and Depression Among Chinese Children and Adolescents.

Although previous studies have shown a close relationship between gaming disorder and depressive symptoms, few have measured normal videogame use, symptoms of gaming disorder, and depressive symptoms concurrently. The longitudinal dynamics between these variables remain unclear. This study used two demographic cohorts to examine the longitudinal relationship between gaming and depressive symptoms: children (n = 1513, 46.9% girls, Mage ± SD = 9.63 ± 0.58 years) and adolescents (n = 1757, 48.5% girls, Mage ± SD = 12.55 ± 0.70 years). Random intercept cross-lagged panel models (RI-CLPMs) were employed to distinguish between within- and between-person levels of gaming and depressive symptoms. The RI-CLPM results showed a stable link between symptoms of gaming disorder and depression at the between-person level for both children and adolescents. At the within-person level, among children, depressive symptoms positively predicted subsequent gaming disorder symptoms, but gaming disorder symptoms were not a significant predictor of depressive symptoms at this level. Among adolescents, there was no significant cross-lagged effect between symptoms of gaming disorder and depression at the within-person level. Additionally, there was no significant cross-lagged effect between normal videogame use and depressive symptoms in either cohort. These results highlight the different effects of normal videogame use and gaming disorder symptoms associated with depressive symptoms. The different effects on children and adolescents underscore the importance of considering the different developmental stages in the study of gaming and mental health outcomes.

The factors related to depressive symptoms in urban older adults in South Korea: a study based on the Seoul Aging Survey

PurposeThis study aims to comprehensively examine the determinants of depression among urban older adults in Seoul, utilizing the social-ecological model to address multifaceted influences.MethodsA comprehensive analysis was conducted using data from the 2022 Seoul Aging Survey, which surveyed 2,914 individuals aged 65 and above. A multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors contributing to depressive symptoms, including socio-demographic characteristics, health behaviors and status, research accessibility, social support, and environmental influences.ResultsThis study revealed that poor subjective health (OR = 1.47) and the presence of multiple chronic diseases (OR = 1.59) significantly increased the risk of depressive symptoms among urban older adults. From a social support standpoint, living alone was associated with a higher risk of depression (OR = 1.66), low food security (OR = 2.56), and low digital competency (OR = 2.70) were all significant predictors of depressive symptoms. Additionally, a lack of engagement with cultural facilities (OR = 2.15) was identified as a critical environmental factor contributing to depression.ConclusionsThe findings underscore the need for comprehensive policy and practical interventions aimed at preventing chronic disease, enhancing social support networks, improving digital literacy, ensuring food security, and expanding access to healthcare and cultural facilities. Such measures are crucial in mitigating depression among urban older adults, thereby enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life.

Interpersonal and environmental microaggressions & depression: Thai LGBQ+ perspectives

Microaggressions, which are subtle verbal and non-verbal insults or denigrations, have been identified as prevalent experiences among LGBQ+ populations, often resulting in adverse mental health outcomes. In the Thai context, little research has explored the impact of both types of microaggressions on depression among LGBQ+ individuals. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between interpersonal (INMG) and environmental microaggressions (ENMG) and depressive symptoms among Thai LGBQ+ individuals. A sample of 307 Thai LGBQ+ participants was surveyed using the Thai Sexual Orientation Microaggressions Scale and the PHQ-9 for depressive symptoms. Hierarchical regression analyses were employed to determine the unique effects of interpersonal and environmental microaggressions on depression, controlling for sociodemographic variables and internalized heterosexism (IHP). Both INMG (β = .172, p = 0.008) and ENMG (β = .173, p = 0.007) were significant predictors of depressive symptoms, accounting for approximately 24.2% of the variance. When introduced into the model, they accounted for a significant ΔR2 of 0.079 (p < 0.001). After controlling for sociodemographics and IHP, these microaggressions contributed significantly to the explanation of depressive symptoms, emphasizing their key role in influencing the mental health of LGBQ+ individuals in Thailand. Interpersonal and environmental microaggressions impose unique mental health challenges on Thai LGBQ+ individuals. These findings accentuate the pressing need for interventions tailored to the cultural and regional contexts within Thailand. Furthermore, the research underscores the importance of acquiring a holistic understanding of the LGBQ+ experience, advocating for a more systematic exploration across Thailand's varied geographical landscapes to offer comprehensive solutions.

Prevalence and factors associated with antenatal depressive symptoms across trimesters: a study of 110,584 pregnant women covered by a mobile app-based screening programme in Shenzhen, China

BackgroundAntenatal depression is a significant public health issue affecting pregnant women both globally and in China. Using data from a mobile app-based screening programme, this study explored the prevalence and factors associated with antenatal depressive symptoms across different trimesters in Shenzhen.MethodsA retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on pregnant women who gave birth in any hospital in Shenzhen between July 2021 and May 2022 and underwent depression screening using an official maternal and infant health mobile app at least once during pregnancy. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), with cut-off scores of 5 and 10 for mild and high level of symptoms, respectively. The prevalence for each trimester was determined by calculating the proportion of women scoring 5 or higher. A variety of sociodemographic, obstetric, psychological, and lifestyle factors were assessed for their association with depressive symptoms. Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression were performed to identify significant predictors.ResultsA total of 110,584 pregnant women were included in the study, with an overall prevalence of depressive symptoms of 18.0% and a prevalence of high-level symptoms of 4.2%. Depressive symptoms were most prevalent in the first trimester (10.9%) and decreased in the second (6.2%) and third trimesters (6.3%). Only a small proportion (0.4%) of women showed persistent depressive symptoms across all trimesters. Anxiety symptoms in early pregnancy emerged as the most significant predictor of depressive symptoms. Other factors linked to an increased risk throughout pregnancy include lower marital satisfaction, living with parents-in-law, experience of negative life events, as well as drinking before and during pregnancy. Factors associated with a reduced risk throughout pregnancy include multiparity and daily physical activity.ConclusionsThis large-scale study provides valuable insights into the prevalence and factors associated with antenatal depressive symptoms in Shenzhen. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions for high-risk groups and the integration of mental health care into routine antenatal services. Continuous, dynamic monitoring of depressive symptoms for pregnant women and ensuring at-risk women receive comprehensive follow-up and appropriate psychological or psychiatric care are crucial for effectively addressing antenatal depression and improving maternal and infant health outcomes.

Association between Depressive Symptoms, Physical Activity, and Health Factors in Hispanic Emerging Adults.

Physical activity is a modifiable lifestyle behavior known for reducing symptoms of and being a risk factor for depression and mental health disorders. However, emerging adults (ages 18-25) struggle to meet recommended amounts. In this study, we explore the association between physical activity, depressive symptoms, and health factors in 137 Hispanic emerging adults. Using a cross-sectional survey design, sociodemographic information, depressive symptoms (CES-D score), physical activity (IPAQ score), body composition, and blood pressure measures were obtained. Statistical analyses included correlation and regression analyses. More than half of the participants demonstrated depressive symptomology (59.1%) and body fat percentage greater than 25% (64.2%). Body fat percentage, lean body mass, stress, and heart rate demonstrated notable associations with depressive symptoms and physical activity. When measured continuously and categorically, IPAQ was not a significant predictor of depressive symptoms. When used as a binary variable with a cutoff of 600 MET min/week, IPAQ score revealed a negative relationship with CES-D score (β = -0.169, SE = 2.748, p = 0.034). Our results indicate that a threshold of physical activity, 600 MET min/week, may confer protective effects against depressive symptoms. Future research should investigate the context and quality of physical activity to address mental health disparities in this underrepresented population.

Psychometric evaluation of the Social Touch Questionnaire in Chinese adolescents.

Social touch promotes psychological well-being through inducing positive effects on social affiliation and stress alleviation, especially in adolescence. However, there is a scarcity of instruments available for evaluating adolescents' attitude toward social touch in China. The present study aimed to investigate the validity and reliability of the Social Touch Questionnaire (STQ) in Chinese adolescents. A total of 2839 high school students were enrolled, ranging in age from 11 to 19 years. The dimensions of the scale were conducted by exploratory factor analysis, and validated by confirmatory factor analysis. A three-factor model showed the best fit and consisted of the following subgroups: liking of informal social touch, liking of general social touch, and dislike of social touch. Furthermore, positive associations were found between social touch and interaction anxiety, fear of negative evaluation, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and sleep quality. Short-term prediction of dislike of social touch in anxiety symptoms was determined, while no significant predictor of depressive symptoms was found. The STQ demonstrates reliability and validity as a self-report questionnaire designed to assess behaviors and attitudes toward social touch. It effectively adapts to the nuances of the Chinese context among adolescents.

Victimization, polyvictimization, and depression symptoms among immigrants and native children and youth in Chile

BackgroundMigration exposes children and youth to vulnerabilities, including uprooting, lack of protection, limited access to services, and violence. Previous studies have shown that victimization experiences impact the mental health of migrant children, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. This study aims to examine the co-occurrence of multiple forms of maltreatment (polyvictimization) among migrant and Chilean children and youth and its association with depressive symptoms, addressing a research gap in Latin America.MethodsSecondary data from the National Polyvictimization Survey (NPS) conducted by the Chilean Ministry of the Interior were analyzed. Measures assessing polyvictimization and depressive symptoms were administered to a sample of 1362 participants, with equal group sizes for migrants and Chilean-born individuals. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, group comparisons, correlation analyses, and multiple regression analyses.ResultsThe study revealed marked differences in experiences of conventional crime victimization and polyvictimization between migrant and Chilean-born participants, with migrants facing slightly higher incidences. Correlational analysis indicated variable strengths of association between victimization types and depressive symptoms across groups, with Chilean-born individuals showing stronger correlations for certain victimization forms. Multiple regression analysis highlighted gender, polyvictimization, child maltreatment, internet victimization, sexual victimization, and peer/sibling victimization as significant predictors of depressive symptoms across the sample. Notably, an interaction was observed between child maltreatment and migrant status, indicating a mitigated impact of maltreatment on depressive symptoms among migrant adolescents. This suggests the potential for unique resilience or coping mechanisms in this group.ConclusionsThis study elucidates the varied victimization experiences of migrant children and youth in Chile, with a notable emphasis on the mitigating effect of migrant status on the relationship between child maltreatment and depressive symptoms. It highlights the resilience and potential adaptive strategies of migrant minors facing adversity. The findings underscore the necessity of developing support and intervention strategies that recognize the specific needs and strengths of migrant children and youth, advocating for policies that protect and empower this vulnerable demographic amidst new environmental challenges.

Interplay of premigration crisis exposure and postmigration cultural stress on depressive symptoms among Venezuelan crisis migrants in Colombia.

A growing body of research points to a relationship between exposure to migration-related cultural stress and mental health problems. However, such research is often conducted with the tacit assumption that postmigration experiences are the primary-if not singular-driver of psychological distress. In the present study, we aim to extend the cultural-stress paradigm by examining the influences of both premigration crisis exposure and postmigration cultural stress on depression in a sample of Venezuelan crisis migrants in Colombia. Survey data for the present study were collected from Venezuelan youth (N = 429, ages 12-17, Mage = 14.0 years, 49% female) and adults (N = 566, ages 18+, Mage = 35.1 years, 82% female) in Bogota and Medellin, Colombia between April and June 2023. Both crisis exposure and discrimination were independently related to depressive symptoms. However, when examined in a multivariate model along with discrimination, crisis exposure was not a significant predictor of depressive symptoms among youth, and its influence weakened considerably among adults. Among both youth and adults, a Crisis Exposure × Discrimination interaction term significantly predicted depressive symptoms, indicating that discrimination was a more robust predictor of depressive symptoms among those endorsing lower levels of crisis exposure than among those reporting high levels of crisis exposure. Our research provides new insights into the experiences of Venezuelan migrant youth and adults in Colombia. It provides further support for the importance of drawing from a crisis-informed cultural-stress framework when working with crisis migrant populations. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

The moderating role of stigma in the relationship between depression and resilience: results of a cross-sectional study in university students.

Depression is a growing concern in university students and resilience has shown to play a protective role. The impact of stigma is still under-explored, with reference to its moderating role between depression and resilience. The present study investigate such a relationship among Italian university students. A cross-sectional design was applied in a simple of 1,912 students to examine the interrelationships between depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), resilience (Nicholson McBride Resilience questionnaire), and stigma (Stigma-9). Correlation, predictor, and moderation analyses were applied in RStudio. A negative correlation was found between depressive symptoms and resilience (r = -0.455, p < 0.001). A positive correlation was found between depressive symptoms and stigma (r = 0.207, p < 0.001). Lower levels of resilience and higher levels of stigma were significant predictors of depressive symptoms [F(df, n) = 190.8(3, 1884), p < 0.001, R2 = 0.236]. The moderation analysis showed a weakening of resilience protective effect against depression as stigma levels increase [F(df,n) = 186.7(3,1908), p < 0.001, R2 = 0.226]. Stigma influences the relationship between depression and resilience. Anti-stigma interventions and programs empowering resilience, should be implemented in university settings to protect students from depression.

Endometriosis and depressive symptoms: The role of quality of life in endometriosis, chronic illness-related shame, self-compassion, and psychological flexibility

Introduction Endometriosis is a gynaecological pathology characterized by endometrial tissue similar to stroma and endometrium in extra endometrial and myometrial sites. This condition affects women’s mental health and quality of life and can elicit shame feelings.ObjectivesTo explore the role of quality of life in endometriosis, chronic illness-related shame, self-compassion, and psychological flexibility in depressive symptoms.Methods 260 people diagnosed with endometriosis, aged 18 years or older, were recruited through patients’ associations. Participants completed an online sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire and the following self-report instruments: Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Scales (DASS-21), Endometrioses Health Profile (EHP-5), Chronic Illness-Related Shame Scale (CISS), Compassionate Engagement and Action Scales (EEAC-SC), and the Psy-Flex Scale.ResultsRegression analyses showed that years of education, endometriosis-related quality of life (pain, control, emotional well-being, social support, and self-image), chronic illness-related shame, and psychological flexibility were the significant predictors of depressive symptoms. On the other hand, endometriosis-related quality of life (work life, relationship with children, sexual life, relationship with healthcare professionals, treatment, and infertility) and self-compassion were not significantly associated with depressive symptoms.ConclusionsThe identification of chronic illness-related shame and quality of life related to endometriosis as relevant variables regarding the presence of symptoms of depression points to the relevance of early detection of these phenomena to prevent the development of depressive symptoms. Moreover, interventions targeting the development of psychological flexibility may contribute to the amelioration and prevention of depressive symptoms.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

When you avoid your feelings, you may feel even worse: how depersonalization puts you at risk of depression.

The clinical form of depersonalization affects approximately 1%-2% of the adult population. This study aimed to describe the symptoms of depersonalization in a non-clinical sample and to operationalize depersonalization as a regulatory mechanism. This article introduces the Depersonalization Mechanism Scale, 41-item measure developed to assess one's tendency for depersonalization in response to overstimulation. The aim of the study is to explore how depersonalization mechanism is associated with cognitive and behavioral emotion regulation strategies, depression, and anxiety. The study included a sample of 300 Polish adults (149 men) from the general population, ranging in age from 18 to 60. Participants were administered the following questionnaires: Depersonalization Mechanism Scale (DMS), Behavioral Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (BERQ), Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ), Occupational Depression Inventory (ODI), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ), and Trait Anxiety Scale (SL-C). An exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure of Depersonalization Mechanism Scale, with very high reliability coefficients for both subscales and full scale. A regression analysis revealed that depersonalization mechanism is a significant predictor of depressive symptoms. Depersonalization mechanism is strongly correlated with maladaptive regulation strategies such as withdrawal, ignoring, rumination, catastrophizing, self-blame, and blaming others. Weaker but significant connections were identified with certain adaptive strategies: acceptance, positive refocusing, putting into perspective, and seeking social support. Women were more prone to depersonalization than men. Further research on depersonalization in non-clinical samples may improve understanding of this mechanism in the general population. This knowledge, combined with greater education about non-clinical forms of depersonalization, may support preventive programs against depression and professional assistance for people facing acute or chronic stressful life events.

A path analysis investigation into menopausal osteoporosis, sarcopenia risk, and their impact on sleep quality, depressive symptoms and quality of life

PurposeThe objective was to investigate the relationships among disease characteristics, sarcopenia risk, bone function, sleep quality, depressive symptoms, and health-related quality of life in menopausal women. Additionally, we also examined the potential mediating role of coping in the relationship between these factors and health outcomes for individuals with osteoporosis. MethodsIn a cross-sectional approach, 201 participants were referred by a physician from the Family Medicine Department during their outpatient visits at a general hospital in Southern Taiwan. Data collection involved structured one-on-one interviews, and the analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics, along with a structural equation modeling. ResultsThe participants' bone function was strongly positively related to coping, physical and mental quality of life (QOL), and negatively related to sleep quality and depressive symptoms. The duration of osteoporosis was positively related to pain, sarcopenia risk, sleep quality, but negatively related to bone function, physical and mental QOL. This structural framework explains 36% of the variance in depressive symptoms, 25% in sleep disturbances, 54% in mental QOL, and 72% in physical QOL. The best-fit structural equation modeling showed that physical function, exercise, sarcopenia, pain, and coping were significant predictors of depressive symptoms, with coping acting as a mediator in these relationships. ConclusionIndividuals who employed more active coping strategies exhibited fewer depressive symptoms, better sleep quality, and superior physical and mental QOL. Further, individuals with osteoporosis had lower pain levels, less sarcopenia risk, and higher engaged in exercise presentation improved physical and mental QOL. Future longitudinal research holds the promise of providing deeper insights into these complex relationships.

Fatalistic and Optimistic Coping Strategies Predict Depression in Arab Muslim Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease.

Depression is one of the common psychological problems in patients on hemodialysis. We aimed to identify the predictors associated with depressive symptoms among patients on hemodialysis from a population under-represented in research and minoritized in countries like the United States. This cross-sectional study used a convenience sample of patients in Oman. Data were analyzed using linear multiple regression. A total of 157 patients on hemodialysis participated in the study, with 40.5% reporting different levels of depressive symptoms. Higher stress levels (β = .643; p < .01) and higher perceived effectiveness of the fatalistic coping style (β = .144; p < .05) were significant predictors of depressive symptoms. Patients with a higher optimistic coping style (β = -.182; p < .01) had lower levels of depressive symptoms. Arab Muslim hemodialysis patients have significant levels of depressive symptoms. Identifying predictors of depressive symptoms may help identify those at risk and provide culturally appropriate interventions.

DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AND SUBJECTIVE COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN OLDER ADULTS WITH MULTIMORBIDITY

Abstract Among older adults with multimorbidity (MM), depression has been associated with poorer cognitive function and vice versa; however, evidence for this temporal association is limited. Further, while the relationship between depression and cognitive function is commonly studied with dementia, less is known about the relation of depression to cognitive impairment (SCI) in older populations without dementia. We compared bidirectional models of the relationship between depressive symptoms and SCI among community-dwelling older adults with MM. Adults ≥ 62 years with MM (n = 107) recruited through a national health volunteer registry completed validated scales twice, six months apart, assessing chronic illnesses, SCI (PROMIS Cognitive Function Short Form 4a), and depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale 15). Regression analyses examined two models of depressive symptoms and SCI over time (comparing causal direction), adjusting for age, gender, and number of diseases. Participants were 63-87 years old and living with multiple illnesses (M = 4.2; range: 2-9); 21% reported moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms. Depressive symptoms at the first time point significantly predicted SCI six months later after controlling for baseline SCI (β = -.335; p &amp;lt; .001), such that greater depressive symptoms were associated with poorer SCI in adjusted six-month models. In comparison, SCI at baseline was not a significant predictor of depressive symptoms after controlling for initial depressive symptoms (β = -.057; p = .53) in adjusted models. Among older adults with MM, depressive symptoms may be a risk factor for future SCI or a prodromal symptom of cognitive impairment.

Addictive Social Media Use and Depressive Symptoms in Adolescents

Abstract: Theoretical Background: The use of social media has become an integral part of the lives of young people. Negative effects on mental health have been reported previously; however, it remained unclear whether the amount of time spent with social media use per se or its usage patterns lead to possible impairments. Addictive use is characterized by compulsive usage patterns in contrast to a flexible use. Objective: The present work investigated the associations between the amount of time spent with social media, the usage pattern (i. e., addictive use vs. flexible use), and the occurrence of depressive symptoms. Method: Cross-sectional data based on the self-reports of 513 high-school students aged 11 – 19 ( M = 12.91, SD = 1.02) from 39 classes (18 schools) in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany, are presented. Hierarchically linear models accounted for the nested structure and were applied to investigate the predictive significance of time spent with social media and addictive use of social media on depressive symptoms. Results: Addictive use of social media could be identified as a significant predictor of depressive symptoms and explained 17 % of variance in depressive symptoms in the present model. Time spent with social media use did not explain a significant share of variance in depressive symptoms, after controlling for addictive social media use. Discussion and Conclusion: These findings highlight that it is not the time spent on social media per se, but the addictive usage patterns that explain a significant share of depressive symptoms in adolescents. Although a reciprocal or circular association between both disorders can be assumed, addictive usage patterns of social media may represent a potential risk to adolescents’ mental health. To prevent negative consequences of social media use, interventions should focus on the particular functionality of social media use.

Anger sensitivity and relatedness frustration as predictors of depression

Depression is more prevalent in individuals raised in cold and violent families, which can lead to a lack of connection or frustration in relationships and heightened sensitivity to signs of danger, such as anger on faces. These factors can both exacerbate symptoms of depression. However, research into the links between depressive symptoms and relatedness frustration, as well as depressive symptoms and anger sensitivity, has been limited. This study aims to address this gap by investigating these relationships. The study recruited 1241 participants from the general population, who completed an online task involving the recognition of emotions on morphed faces and questionnaires measuring depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS-M) and relatedness frustration (Basic Psychological Need Satisfaction and Frustration Scale, BPNSFS). As expected, the results showed that depressive symptoms were positively associated with relatedness frustration, however, were negatively associated with anger sensitivity. Both factors were also found to be significant predictors of depressive symptoms. Our results are noteworthy especially given the fact that we are living in a time of staying in the home for extended periods of time, which is associated with cognitive decline and depression.

The Association between Internalizing Symptoms and Witnessing School Bullying and Defending Behavior: An Analysis of Gender Differences among Elementary and Middle School Students.

Bullying is a significant public health concern that begins as early as elementary school and peaks in middle school. Although researchers have demonstrated the relationship between internalizing symptoms and being a target of bullying, there is limited research examining the association between internalizing symptoms and witnessing school bullying and defending targets or gender differences in these relationships. In this cross-sectional study, we examined gender as a moderator of the relationships between internalizing symptoms (e.g., depressive symptoms and social anxiety) and witnessing school bullying and defending behavior in a sample of elementary and middle school students (N = 126; 51.6% female; 3rd-8th grade). Results demonstrated that witnessing school bullying was a significant predictor of depressive symptoms. For social anxiety, the gender x witnessing school bullying interaction was significant for social avoidance and distress (SAD), such that among female students, SAD was positively related to witnessing school bullying. In contrast, the gender x defending behavior interaction was significant for fear of negative evaluation (FNE), such that among male students, FNE was positively related to defending behavior. Findings suggest bullying prevention should incorporate bystander training programs that include a focus on gender differences in social anxiety associated with being a bullying bystander.

Fear of Happiness Predicts Concurrent but not Prospective Depressive Symptoms in Adolescents.

It is increasingly recognised that the study of responses to positive emotions significantly contributes to our understanding of psychopathology. Notably, positive emotions are not necessarily experienced as pleasurable. Instead, some believe that experiencing happiness may have negative consequences, referred to as fear of happiness (FOH), or they experience a fear of losing control over positive emotions (FOLC). According to reward devaluation theory, such an association of positivity with negative outcomes will result in positive stimuli being devalued over time, contributing to or maintaining depressive symptoms. The prospective relationship between fears of positivity and depressive symptoms is yet to be examined in adolescents. The present longitudinal study investigated whether FOH and FOLC prospectively predict depressive symptoms. 128 adolescents between 16-18 years of age (M = 16.87, SD = 0.80) recruited from two secondary schools in Flanders, Belgium, completed measures of depressive symptoms (Depression Anxiety Stress Scales) including consummatory anhedonia, FOH (Fear of Happiness Scale), and FOLC (Affective Control Scale) in their classroom at baseline and 2-months follow-up. Regression analyses were performed to test the association between FOH, FOLC, and depressive symptoms. FOH concurrently, but not prospectively, predicted depressive symptoms. There was no significant association between FOH and consummatory anhedonia. FOLC was not a significant predictor of depressive symptoms or consummatory anhedonia. These findings suggest that FOH may only be concurrently related to depressive symptoms. Considering prior findings in adults, future research should investigate the association of FOH with anticipatory anhedonia in adolescents.

Later-life depressive symptoms during the Covid-19 pandemic: Investigations of individual, cumulative, and synergistic effects of social isolation

Objectives This study examines associations between social isolation and depressive symptoms among Hong Kong Chinese adults aged 65 and older by investigating the distinct effects of individual indicators, cumulative index, and typologies of social isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods We used a sample of 260 older adults from a cross-sectional, city-wide online survey targeting 1,109 aged 45+ adults through purposive sampling. Seven indicators of social isolation (not married; living alone; not engaging in social/organizational activities; no social contact with friends or families; lack of family and friends networks; loneliness) using Cornwell & Waite’s framework were selected to construct three unique types of social isolation measures. We used latent class analysis (LCA) and regression models to examine the effects of varied typologies of social isolation on depressive symptoms. Results Individual model of social isolation showed that lack of social contact and feeling lonely were significant predictors of depressive symptoms. A strong linear-trend gradient effect of cumulative social isolation on depressive symptoms was also observed. The LCA model identified four typologies of social isolation (socially isolated; living alone but socially engaged; married but lacking social ties, and not socially isolated); those in the ‘socially isolated’ and ‘married but lacking social ties’ groups had the most depressive symptoms. Conclusion Three operationalizations of social isolation demonstrated different utilities and implications in assessing the impacts of social isolation on depressive symptoms. Social contacts and loneliness, rather than living status or other characteristics of isolation, were the factors most strongly associated with depressive symptoms. Support programs should target lonely older adults who lack social engagement opportunities, as they are at increased risk of depression.