Social difficulties associated with self-reported depressive symptomatology in childhood : the unique role of victimization

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Amy E. Parrish (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Susan P. Keane

Abstract: The current study investigated the unique contributions of victimization, aggressiveness, and social preference to the prediction of depressive symptoms in fourth and fifth grade children. It was predicted that victimization would be significantly related to depressive symptoms, but that aggressiveness and social preference would not be related to depressive symptoms. Additionally, two self-perception variables - children's perceived social status and their outcome expectations - were proposed to mediate the relationship between peer victimization and depressive symptoms. Forty-seven children (63.8% white, 55.3% girls) comprised the sample. Multiple regression analyses indicated that peer ratings of victimization were uniquely and positively related to depressive symptoms; aggressiveness and social preference were not related to depressive symptoms as measured by the Children's Depression Inventory. Victimization scores approached significance in the prediction of perceived social status (as measured by the Harter Perceived Competence Scale) and outcome expectancy (as measured by the Outcome Expectancy Questionnaire). A multiple regression mediation analysis indicated that perceived social status mediated the relationship between victimization and depressive symptoms. Findings were discussed with regard to the social information-processing model proposed by Crick and Dodge (1994).

Additional Information

Publication
Dissertation
Language: English
Date: 1995
Subjects
Depression in children
School children $x Psychology

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