Depressive symptoms at 12-15 years -: gender differences and other aspects

The study examined the relations among depressive symptoms, global self-esteem, body satisfaction, real masculinity and ideal masculinity in adolescents aged 12-15. 207 Prague pupils and students completed a set of self-report questionnaires. No significant sex, age and type of school effects were found on depressive symptoms. Boys scored significantly higher on both masculinity aspects. Adolescents with higher level of depressive symptoms showed lower real masculinity, lower global self-esteem and smaller body satisfaction. Contribution of these variables to the statistical prediction of depressive symptoms was analyzed together with contribution of three additional variables: perception of family atmosphere, face satisfaction and global appearance satisfaction. All variables together predicted depressive symptoms better in boys than in girls. The regression estimation was increased mainly by global self-esteem and perception of family atmosphere, especially in boys.