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. 2007 Apr-Jun;36(2):147-58.
doi: 10.1080/15374410701274926.

Cognitive features associated with depressive symptoms in adolescence: directionality and specificity

Carolyn A McCarty  1 , Ann Vander Stoep, Elizabeth McCauley
Affiliations

Cognitive features associated with depressive symptoms in adolescence: directionality and specificity

Carolyn A McCarty et al. J Clin Child Adolesc Psychol. 2007 Apr-Jun.

Abstract

In this study we examined cognitive features that have been posited to contribute to depressive vulnerability in adolescents. Using a longitudinal sample of 331 young adolescents followed from 6th to 7th grade, cross-lagged structural equation analyses were conducted. Controlling for baseline levels of depressive, conduct, and anxiety symptoms, low self-worth was associated with a vulnerability to both depressive symptoms and conduct problems, whereas rejection sensitivity was uniquely predictive of increases in anxiety. In support of cognitive "scar" models, baseline depressive and conduct problems were both predictive of a more negative attributional style. Depressive symptoms also predicted more rejection sensitivity, whereas conduct problems predicted lower self-esteem.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Results of the bidirectional effects model (psychopathology specific).
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