Abnormal and Behavioural Psychology

Background: Parental marital status is an important risk factor for adolescent depression. A poor relationship between parents leads to a poor family atmosphere, which increases the risk of childhood trauma. This study aims to explore the mediating role of emotional abuse and neglect in the effect of parental marital status on depressive symptoms of adolescents, especially in divorced, widowed, and reorganized families.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 4576 students from 7 middle schools (Grades 6 to 9) through online questionnaires from April to May 2021 in Shanghai, China. Questionnaires included the self-designed general situation questionnaire, childhood trauma questionnaire-short form and childhood depression inventory, which were used to measure demographic variables, childhood trauma and depressive symptoms of adolescents respectively.

Results: The depressive symptoms of adolescents whose parents were in stable marriages were significantly lower than those whose parents were divorced or widowed (t=3.98, p<0.01) and reorganized families (t=4.67, p<0.01). Emotional abuse (β=0.39, p<0.01), emotional neglect (β=0.28, p<0.01), physical neglect (β=0.06, p<0.01), and parental marital status of reorganization (β=0.03, p=0.03) had significant positive predictive effects on depressive symptoms in adolescents. The mediating effects of emotional abuse and emotional neglect between parental marital status (divorced or widowed and reconstituted) on adolescent depressive symptoms were significant.

Conclusion: Therefore, a stable marriage of parents is conducive to the development of adolescents’ physical and mental health. Emotional abuse and neglect tend to occur in divorced or widowed families and reorganized families. These findings are important for sociological intervention in adolescent depression.

Social psychology is a fascinating field that delves into the complexities of human behavior within social contexts. It seeks to understand how individuals' thoughts, feelings, and actions are influenced by the presence of others. By examining various social phenomena, social psychologists uncover valuable insights into topics such as conformity, obedience, attitudes, stereotypes, prejudice, and group dynamics. This comprehensive exploration of social psychology aims to shed light on the fundamental principles, theories, and research that shape our understanding of human behavior in social situations. To comprehend the development of social psychology, it is crucial to examine its historical roots. The field emerged in the late 19^th century with the works of pioneering social psychologists such as Norman Triplett and Gustave Le Bon. Notably, the influence of significant events such as World War II and the civil rights movement propelled the growth of social psychology, leading to the establishment of prominent theories and experiments.

Clinical psychology is a vital branch of psychology that focuses on diagnosing and treating mental disorders and emotional distress. This field encompasses various theoretical frameworks, assessment techniques, and therapeutic interventions to promote psychological well-being. In this comprehensive essay, we will delve into the multifaceted world of clinical psychology, exploring its history, theoretical foundations, assessment methods, therapeutic modalities, and its critical role in society. By examining its diverse applications and the challenges faced by clinical psychologists, we aim to shed light on the importance of this discipline in understanding and supporting mental health. Clinical psychology is a specialized branch of psychology that combines research, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health issues. Its primary objective is to help individuals lead fulfilling lives by addressing psychological problems that hinder their well-being. Clinical psychologists are highly trained professionals who possess extensive knowledge in various theoretical frameworks, evidence-based interventions, and therapeutic techniques. This essay aims to provide an in-depth analysis of clinical psychology, elucidating its historical development, theoretical underpinnings, assessment strategies, therapeutic approaches, and its societal significance.