Influence of Family Functioning on Depressive Symptoms in Adolescents in the City of Milagro

Abstract

Background: The family is the smallest unit of society. It plays a crucial role in influencing individuals' behaviour and shaping their future, especially for children and adolescents.

Objective: The study aims to determine whether better family functioning is associated with lower levels of depression in adolescents aged 12-17 years in Milagro (Ecuador).

Methodology: A quantitative, correlational, cross-sectional study was conducted with 323 adolescents (55.7% female and 44.3% male) selected by non-probabilistic convenience sampling. The FF-SIL Family Functioning Test (14 items, α = 0.95) and the Beck Depression Inventory BDI-II (21 items, α = 0.96) were administered. Data were analyzed with IBM SPSS v25, using Pearson's correlation, linear regression, Student's t-tests, and ANOVA, with a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results: A significant negative correlation was found between family functioning and depression (r = -0.65, p < 0.001), explaining 42% of the variance in depressive symptoms (R² = 0.42). 43.7% of the participants perceived their families as severely dysfunctional, while only 17.1% considered them functional. There were no significant gender differences in family functioning (t = -0.89, p = 0.37) and depression (t = 1.23, p = 0.22). The most frequent depressive symptoms were loss of interest, self-criticism, and guilt. The results support that positive family functioning acts as a protective factor against depression in adolescents. Although gender showed no influence, the high prevalence of family dysfunctionality underscores the need for targeted interventions to improve cohesion, communication, and emotional support in the family unit.

Unique contribution:   This study provides an in-depth and specific understanding of the relationship between family functioning and depressive symptoms in adolescents in Milagro, Ecuador, a context that has been little explored in previous research.

Conclusion: Understanding the influence of family functioning on adolescent mental health is fundamental to the development of effective intervention strategies.

Key recommendation: These findings are relevant for designing public policies and prevention programs in adolescent mental health, prioritizing the family as the central axis of action.