Distress in Adolescence in China: Concurrent Environmental Characteristicsand Pathways to Depression in Adulthood

ABSTRACT This study purposes to examine the direct pathways from psychological distress and environmental factors in adolescence to depression in adulthood, as well as the indirect pathways via life satisfaction, confidence in the future, and interpersonal relationships. 1,759 respondents who were measured in both 2010 and 2018 in China Family Panel Studies were included. Using structural equation modelling (SEM), this study found that psychological distress in adolescence has unique impacts on depression in adulthood. Family environment was indirectly associated with adulthood depression through life satisfaction. School satisfaction demonstrated its salient influences on adulthood depression through life satisfaction, confidence in the future, and interpersonal relationships. Based on longitudinal data, this study depicted complex mechanisms shaping adulthood depression which involved both adolescent psychological distress and concurrent environmental factors. Correspondingly, social work practices should be improved regarding early intervention on psychological distress, integration of different practical areas, and adoption of interpersonal therapeutic treatment.