PREVENTION OF DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS IN SCHOOL-CHILDREN

This paper describes the development and preliminary efficacy of a pro gram designed to prevent depressive symptoms in at-risk 10-13 year-old s, and relates the findings to the current understanding of childhood depression. The treatment targets depressive symptoms and related diff iculties such as conduct problems, low academic achievement, low socia l competence, and poor peer relations, by proactively teaching cogniti ve techniques. Children were identified as 'at-risk' based on depressi ve symptoms and their reports of parental conflict. Sixty-nine childre n participated in treatment groups and were compared to 73 children in control groups. Depressive symptoms were significantly reduced and cl assroom behavior was significantly improved in the treatment group as compared to controls at post-test. Six-month follow-up showed continue d reduction in depressive symptoms, as well as significantly fewer ext ernalizing conduct problems, as compared to controls. The reduction in symptoms was most pronounced in the children who were most at risk.