Kinder und Jugendliche mit depressiven Erkrankungen: Über die Bedeutung von interpersonellen Einflussfaktoren und der Optimierung der Psychotherapie durch Integration von Bezugspersonen

Depression is a relevant illness in childhood and adolescence with substantial impairments for affected children and adolescents in various areas of life. Both in its development and its maintenance, depression in childhood and adolescence seems to be influenced by the primary social and family environment. Dysfunctional interactions between parents and children may thus affect both the development and the course of the disorder. However, previous studies on the efficacy and effectiveness of psychotherapy for depression in children and adolescents are very heterogeneous and show only small effect sizes. Thus, the primary aim of this dissertation is to optimize psychotherapy for children and adolescents with depression. Against this background, relevant interpersonal factors are investigated. In summary, this dissertation points out that depression in childhood and adolescence must be considered and also treated in an interpersonal context. For the treatment, it appears to be of high relevance to involve the social environment early and extensively in order to achieve a change in dealing with negative interaction experiences in childhood and adolescence.