Cultural Influence On The Manifestation Of Depression
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Cultural Influence On The Manifestation Of Depression
Abstract
Background: Depression among adolescents is a less common but often underrecognized issue in pediatrics. Both depression and its associated symptoms significantly affect children and adolescents.
Methods: This study was conducted among adolescents aged 9-18 in secondary schools across the Enugu and Ebonyi metropolises. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire based on the Goldberg Depression Questionnaire, which is tailored for this age group. Socio-economic classes of the families were categorized using a modified version of the method recommended by Oyedeji.
Objectives: The primary aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of various levels of depression among secondary school adolescents in the two states.
Results: A total of 453 adolescents participated in the study. Findings indicate that depression was not present before the age of 10. The prevalence of moderate depression was lowest at 2.3% at age 10 and highest at 6.2% at age 13.
Severe depression prevalence was lowest at 1.9% at age 11 and highest at 7.4% at age 12. Female gender emerged as a risk factor for depression. Additionally, children from separated families exhibited higher rates of depression across all levels studied.
INTRODUCTION
Depression, characterized by a persistent low mood and a lack of interest in activities, remains a topic of contention in the literature concerning adolescents.
Some studies have historically argued that younger adolescents lack the psychological development, such as fully formed superego functions, necessary to genuinely experience depression.
This perspective is influenced by the traditional view of adolescence as a period marked by “storm and stress,” which led many to interpret depressive symptoms during this stage as a normal part of development. However, this view has been challenged as more evidence emerges about the prevalence and impact of depression in this age group.
Cultural Influence
In contrast to these earlier beliefs, contemporary research underscores that depression is indeed a significant issue among children and adolescents. Adolescence is increasingly recognized as a critical period for the onset of depressive disorders. While depression is often unrecognized in adults, it is even less acknowledged in younger populations.
Studies reveal that depression affects up to 8.3% of older adolescents in the United States, with around 2% of school-aged children and 8% of adolescents meeting the criteria for major depression on any given day.
Over time, the prevalence is even higher, with one in five adolescents experiencing depression at some point in their lives. In primary care settings, depression rates among adolescents can reach as high as 28%.
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