Understanding longitudinal Trajectories of Environmental Factors and Depression Among Adolescents

The applicant, Ms. Mia Campbell, proposes to investigate the complex relationships between caregiver experiences of unfair treatment, environmental characteristics, and adolescent depression, addressing a critical need in public health. This dissertation project will ultimately prepare the applicant for an independent research career focused on improving the prevention and treatment of depression and mood disorders among adolescents. Adolescent depression is a pressing public health concern in the United States. The significance of this research lies in the increasing prevalence of adolescent depression and its profound and long-lasting consequences on individuals' lives. Utilizing a unique dataset from the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcome (ECHO) Program, we will apply innovative methodologies to unravel these intricate connections. In Aim 1, we will identify latent classes of caregivers based on their experiences of unfair treatment and explore their associations with adolescent depression. This study extends the existing body of research by incorporating caregiver experiences as a crucial factor in understanding adolescent depression. Aims 2 and 3 will assess the moderating effects of psychosocial and environmental factors on the relationship between caregiver experiences and adolescent depression. Employing linear mixed models, we will examine the dynamic interplay of these variables over time. We will also investigate the influence of multiple psychosocial and environmental factors to explore how they shape the relationship between caregiver experiences and adolescent depression. By adopting a transdisciplinary approach and collaborating with experts in latent class analysis, longitudinal methods, and social science scholarship, this research seeks to provide novel insights into the determinants of adolescent mental health. Our ultimate goal is to develop a comprehensive framework that integrates social and physical environments, caregiver experiences, and adolescent depression. The outcomes of this research will guide targeted interventions and policies to create healthier and more supportive environments for adolescents. In summary, this study will contribute to advancing the field of public mental health by bridging existing gaps in knowledge and practice. It will provide innovative solutions for addressing the mental health needs of adolescents and help reduce differences in depression rates, ultimately improving the well-being of the next generation.