Predictors of pre-adolescent depression and suicidal ideation

Abstract

Harter and her associates have developed a model that examines perceived competence and social support as predictors of depression and suicidal ideation in adolescents (Harter, Marold, & Whitesell, 1992). This study applies a subset of concepts from Harter's model to a group of 9 to 12 year old boys and girls and their parents. Using separate standard multiple regression analyses for child, mother, and father informants, support was found for perceived competence and social support as predictors of depression and suicidal ideation during pre-adolescence. Discussion focuses on how depression is manifest at different developmental levels. Further research using school-based assessment and intervention is needed to address those aspects of depression that are continuous and those that are discontinuous over time.