Depression and Social Functioning: A Multidimensional Study of the Linkages

Examined relation between child depression and social functioning for 112 fourth to sixth graders. Self-, peer, and teacher reports of both depression and social functioning were obtained. Factor analysis revealed six social-functioning factors (Negative Social Behavior, Social Withdrawal, Other-Rated Social Competence, Self-Rated Social Competence, Social Activity, and Accuracy of Self-Evaluated Social Competence), which were used to predict depression. Negative Social Behavior predicted depression as reported by all three sources, as did the Social Competence measures, although the specific social competence measure differed depending on the reporter of depression. Social Withdrawal predicted depression as reported by both peers and teachers, and low Social Activity predicted self-rated depression. Composite depression scores, combining data from multiple reporters, were all predicted by Negative Social Behavior, Social Withdrawal, and low Other-Rated Social Competence. Results provide information useful for planning both highly specific and general broad-band treatment and prevention.