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Coping, Negative Cognitive Style and Depressive Symptoms in Children of Depressed Parents

Abstract  

Coping and negative cognitive style were studied in relation to depressive symptoms in children at risk for depression. In
a sample of 165 children (ages 9–15) of depressed parents, the main and interaction effects of coping and negative cognitive
style were examined in association with children’s depressive symptoms measured by parent and child report on questionnaires
and diagnostic interviews. Negative cognitive style was related to three types of coping (primary control, secondary control,
and disengagement). Furthermore, coping and negative cognitive style made independent contributions to depressive symptoms.
Little support emerged for interactive effects on depressive symptoms. Implications for future research with this high-risk
population of children are considered.

  • Content Type Journal Article
  • Category Original Article
  • Pages 1-11
  • DOI 10.1007/s10608-012-9437-8
  • Authors
    • Jennifer P. Dunbar, Department of Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Peabody #552, 230 Appleton Place, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
    • Laura McKee, Psychology Department, Clark University, Worcester, MA, USA
    • Aaron Rakow, Department of Psychology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
    • Kelly H. Watson, Department of Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Peabody #552, 230 Appleton Place, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
    • Rex Forehand, Department of Psychology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
    • Bruce E. Compas, Department of Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Peabody #552, 230 Appleton Place, Nashville, TN 37203, USA