Depressive Symptom Incidence and Related Factors in Primary Education Students

Abstract

Objectives: This study was performed to determine depressive symptom incidence and related factors in primary education students. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 435 students between the ages of 8-13 in a primary education school in Kars' city centre. The data were obtained with a general information form, Children's Depression Inventory, as well as a questionnaire completed while under observation. Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used to compare the data. Results: The average age of study participants was 9.96 +/- 0.89 (8-13), average value of depression scale was 9.68 +/- 4.84 (0-54), with a value >19 for 6.9% of students (n-30). It was determined that depression levels in students with health problems, low academic standing, and a lack of parental attention were higher (p<0.05). Gender, place of birth, seating arrangement in class, presence of a tutor, and involvement in social activities did not affect depression levels (p>0.05). Conclusion: Considering the influence of parental attention and academic standing on depressive symptom incidence, it is important to inform families how they can best support their children and prepare them to succeed. As teachers spend the greatest amount of time with children outside of their immediate family, they must understand childhood depression for early detection of this problem. Additional studies addressing the effectiveness of increased training of health services staff in schools in detecting depressive symptoms are recommended.