Psychosocial Factors Associated with Symptoms of Depression among Ghanaian Adolescent Students in Junior and Senior High Schools.

Abstract

The present study examined psychosocial factors associated with depression among Ghanaian adolescent students in junior and senior high schools. Three hundred high school students were recruited comprising 150 males and 150 females. Tests administered evaluated depressive symptoms, self-esteem, and parental social support. The results revealed that female adolescents experienced more depressive symptoms than male adolescents. However, there was no significant difference in depressive symptoms of adolescents from separated/divorced families and adolescents from married families. Further, the results revealed a significant negative correlation between depressive symptoms and self-esteem, but no significant correlation between depressive symptoms and social support. Implications for further research are discussed.