DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AND SELF-CONCEPT IN YOUNG-PEOPLE WITH SPINA-BIFIDA

Examined self-reported depressive symptoms in 72 young people with spi na bifida, ages 9 to 18:11, and matched able-bodied comparison subject s, using the Dimensions of Depression Profile for Children and Adolesc ents (Harter & Nowakowski, 1987). Independent variables included gende r, self-perceptions (including physical appearance), and perceived soc ial support. Young people with spina bifida were at greater-risk of de pressive mood, low self-worth, and suicidal ideation. Girls, independe nt of disability, were at greater-risk of depressive mood, low self-wo rth, and self-blame. Multiple regression analyses suggest that global self-worth serves as a mediating variable for the effect of physical a ppearance self-concept on depressed mood (particularly in young people with spina bifida), and that perceived parental social support has a direct effect on depressed mood (particularly in girls).