Depression in later life: cross-sequential patterns and possible determinants.
Research on the relationship between age and depression has not yielded a consistent picture. Approaches emphasizing resilience compete with assumptions of an increased incidence of depressive problems in later life. This study investigated these issues within a research format combining cross-sectional and 8-year longitudinal assessments of depressive tendencies (690 participants, aged 54-77 years). The developmental patterns suggest 2 phases: Relative stability extending to about 70 years and a subsequent increase of depressive tendencies. Antecedent and mediating factors were explored within a broader context of variables (health status, social and economic resources, coping competences, and future perspectives). Differences in time perspective and a disposition of accommodative flexibility predicted subsequent changes in depression and mediated age effects in depressive tendencies.
Rothermund
Klaus
K
Department of Psychology, University of Trier, Germany. rothermu@uni-trier.de
Brandtstädter
Jochen
J
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003863:Depression / Q000209:etiology* / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors; D012944:Social Support