Early pubertal timing predicts onset and recurrence of depressive episodes in boys and girls.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Recurrent depressive episodes during adolescence result in significant impairment and increased risk for subsequent adverse outcomes throughout the life span. Evidence suggests that early pubertal timing predicts the onset of depressive episodes (particularly for girls); however, it is not known if pubertal timing prospectively predicts recurrent depressive episodes in youth.

Methods

At baseline, 603 youth (56% female, at baseline: M_age  = 12.09, SD = 2.35) reported on their pubertal development. Youth and their parents completed a semistructured diagnostic interview to assess depressive episodes at baseline and then evaluated for onset repeatedly every 6 months for a period of 36 months.

Results

Controlling for past history of depression, Cox pr

SUBMITTER: Hamlat EJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7396277 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature