Abuse, support, and depression among homeless and runaway adolescents

This study examines the effectiveness of social support networks on psychol ogical well-being among 602 homeless and runaway adolescents. The responden ts were interviewed in shelters, drop-in centers, and on the streets in cit ies of four Midwestern states (Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas). The p ath model was used to test the direct effect of family abuse and precocious independence on adolescent depressive symptoms and indirect effects throug h social support networks. Results indicate that although abusive family or igins contribute directly to depressive symptoms them are indirect effects of family abuse and early independence through social support networks. Fam ily abuse and early independence drive homeless adolescents to rely on peer s for social support. While support from friends on the street reduces depr ession, association with deviant peers increases depression.