Parental, peer, and individual determinants of depression among adolescents and young adults: estimates from a within-between model.

BACKGROUND

Depression among adolescents and young adults is often underestimated and overlooked in society. Adolescence is a critical period marked by significant social, psychological, and physical changes. Despite the growing prevalence of mental health problems, help-seeking from healthcare providers is minimal. This study examines the dynamic interplay of parental, peer, and individual factors affecting depression among adolescents and young adults using a within-between model.

METHODS

The study utilized longitudinal data from the "Understanding the Lives of Adolescent and Young Adults" study, conducted in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in 2015-16 (Wave 1) and 2018-19 (Wave 2). The sample for this study was restricted to unmarried adolescents and young adults, comprising 4,221 boys and 5,987 girls. A hybrid model was employed to disentangle the within- and between-person effects of parental, peer, and individual factors on depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

Average depressive symptoms score increased from 1.1 (SD = 2.2) at baseline to 2.2 (SD = 3.1) in wave 2, accompanied by a sharp upward shift from no depression toward minimal and mild symptom categories. Adolescents who discussed school performance with parents, participated in educational decisions, and had educated mothers reported lower depression compared to their counterparts. However, mobility restrictions, parental violence, and internet access were reported to be associated with higher depression at both within- and between-person levels. An increase in peer size showed a modest association with higher depression.

CONCLUSION

The findings highlight the importance of supportive parental engagement, freedom of mobility, and educational autonomy to reduce depressive symptoms among adolescents.