Research Proposal on Teenage Depression

Abstract

This paper will critically examine the impact of depression on the lives of teen agers, and analyze the factors which lead to depressive behaviors. Significant factors; such as the family dynamics of teenagers and their social environments, and their role in depression among teenagers will be discussed. One of the most influential components in the life of a teenager is his family; the quality of the relation that the teen maintains with the family will play a significant role, in the formulation of depressive behaviors. The impact of the society and the “self” must be examined to understand the depressive tendencies among teenagers. More ever, the proposal discusses the relevant theories and research papers in this regard, and presents possible limitations and outcomes.

Research Proposal on Teenage Depression

Introduction

Adolescence can be described as the single most significant stage in the life of an individual. For a developing child it is the stage, when he discovers several rapid physical and emotional changes. The period of an individual's life is characterized by high levels of anxiety and insecurity. It is the time in which individuals seek the approval from the society and also their family members. The life that the teenagers lead is in accordance to their own perspective and also the perspective of others (Cooley, 2011). The teenage years of a child's life are very fragile, as he is in a very insecure frame of mind, and is seeking the approval of people in his surroundings. In this challenging situation, an adolescent may easily fall into depression; and if the condition is allowed to persist, it may become chronic in nature.

Problem Statement

In order to understand the unique challenges that teenagers face; in this stage of life, it is important to examine the environment that these teens are living in. The fact is that the teenage is a very confusing time period for a growing child, due to the changes occurring in his body and mind. Due to this confusion the adolescent becomes insecure and prone to the dangers of falling in to depression. Depressed teenagers are bound to act out and take part in unconstructive activities, whereas their academic and social lives suffer adversely. Teenagers who fall into depression, and are not treated adequately, may not be able to lead a healthy life style. They might form introvert tendencies and their development of social skills will also suffer. The impact of depression in teenage years will also carry on in the adult life of the individual. Hence it is crucial to understand the factors, which lead to the phenomenon of depression among teens.

Thesis Statement

Depression has a major impact on the lives of teenagers; and through adequate analysis of the factors that lead this phenomenon; its impact can be substantially reduced.

Purpose of Study

This endeavor and study will first and foremost be descriptive, and as well as exploratory study. The primary focus of the study will revolve around analyzing the factors that lead to the phenomenon of depression amongst teenagers, and ...