Social Support and Loneliness as Predictors of Depression in Early Adolescents in Palu City

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of social support and loneliness on depression in early adolescents in Palu City. This study employed a quantitative descriptive correlational approach. 100 early adolescents in Palu City were recruited through quota sampling techniques. The research instrument used was a psychological measurement scale comprised of three sub-scales measuring social support, loneliness, and depression. The author adapted the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support created by Zimet . for the loneliness scale, and the R-UCLA Loneliness Scale Version 3 created by Russell for the depression scale. According to the results, there was a significant concurrent effect of social support and loneliness on depression, with an R-squared value of 37.7%. Social support explained 11% of depression, while loneliness explained 26.7%. Keywords: social support, loneliness, depression, early adolescent