Predatory Factors on Depression among Adolescents: Evidence from Nigeria

Abstract

Depression is one of the most common life-threatening disorders among adolescents. Nowadays, cases of suicidal thoughts and attempts have become rampant among adolescents as a result of depression and some underlying factors. It is on this premise that this study examined some predatory factors on depression among adolescents.  There are several predicting factors but this study dwelled on three such factors which are academic performance, family, and peer pressure.  A Correlation research design was adopted for the study. The study population includes lecturers of six selected private universities in the Osun state of Nigeria and was randomly selected. The six selected universities were located in different geographical areas of the state. The instrument used for data collection was self-developed and has a reliability coefficient of 0.82. Four null hypotheses were formulated and tested at a 0.05 level of significance.  The hypotheses were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation. The result of the study shows that a significant relationship exists between the independent variables (academic performance, family, and peer pressure-related factors) and the dependent variable (depression symptoms). Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended among others that all tertiary institutions should have functioning counseling centers that are well equipped with professional counseling psychologists who could assist students through guidance services to enhance their academic performances as well handle peer pressures.

Received: 21 February 2023 / Accepted: 10 June 2023 / Published: 5 July 2023