NCJ Number
217788
Journal
Journal of Early Adolescence Volume: 26 Issue: 3 Dated: August 2006 Pages: 318-343
Date Published
August 2006
Length
26 pages
Annotation
This study examined the idea that nonparent social support buffers the impact of parent depressive symptoms and substance use on adolescent depressive symptoms among a sample of Mexican-American and European-American adolescents.
Abstract
Study results, consistent with previous research, suggest that the majority of youth in the study sample perceived social support from nonparent adults. Adolescents identified close relationships with many extended relatives and nonrelatives, frequently of the same gender as the child, with aunts and teachers the most often nominated supportive adults. Mexican-American girls reported greater levels of support than did any of their peers. European-American girls and Mexican-American boys reported similar levels of social support as did European-American boys. Depressive symptoms were related more strongly to gender than to ethnicity. Girls of both ethnic groups evidenced greater levels of depression. The findings underscore the importance of a better understanding of the role of nonparent social support in the lives of boys and girls within specific contexts. Relationships with supportive nonparent adults vary widely in function, duration, intensity, and frequency of contact. Supportive adults serve instrumental and emotionally supportive functions, helping adolescents explore their identity, improve their self-concept, cultivate values, and make better decisions. This study examined nonparent adult social support as a possible protective factor for Mexican-American (n=142) and European-American (n=148) adolescents when parents reported varying levels of symptoms of depression and substance use. Tables, figures and references