Depressive symptoms among Chinese adolescents from single parent families present a downward trend in the past 25 years: A cross-temporal meta-analysis

Abstract

Background

In recent decades, depressive symptoms have intensified among Chinese adolescents, particularly those from single-parent homes, who are presumed to face heightened mental health risks. Nonetheless, economic growth, fertility policy reforms, and cultural openness have enhanced the adaptability of these adolescents, enabling them to better manage depressive symptom risks.

Aim and method

This study aims to scrutinize the evolving trends of depressive symptoms and explore the related social factors among Chinese adolescents from single-parent families. We involved 109 studies by a Cross-temporal meta-analysis.

Results

Over the past 25 years, the prevalence of depressive symptoms in adolescents from single-parent homes has annually declined. Economic status negatively correlates with depressive symptoms in the current year and 5 years prior. Birth rate, household size negatively impact symptoms, while urbanization level inversely correlates in the present and 5 years ago. Unemployment rate shows negative correlations 5 years apart but positive in the current year. Divorce rates exhibit similar patterns, negative before and now.

Conclusion

The above results indicate that depressive symptoms among Chinese adolescents from single-parent families present a downward trend over time with social development. Macro-level factors such as economic instability, policy dynamics, and shifting attitudes towards marriage had a correlation with depression among adolescents from single-parent families. Future studies can dig into the details of the impact on the mental health of adolescents from single-parent families.