Traumatic Events as Factors of the Depression Development in Young People
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29038/2227-1376-2025-45-kryKeywords:
trauma, affective disorders, social isolation, student youthAbstract
Purpose. This article presents a comprehensive study of the relationship between experienced traumatic events, depressive symptoms, and the subjective feeling of loneliness among young individuals. The research examines the hypothesis that psychologically traumatic events play a significant role in the development of affective disorders and social isolation during adolescence — a critical stage of emotional and psychological development.
Methods. The empirical analysis employed validated psychodiagnostic tools: the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS), which assessed the level of fear and discomfort in social interactions; the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Russell, Peplau, & Ferguson), which measured the degree of emotional isolation and lack of social support; and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21; Lovibond & Lovibond), which provided a quantitative assessment of negative emotional states.
Results. The results confirmed a statistically significant correlation between the intensity of traumatic experience, the severity of depressive symptoms, and the depth of perceived loneliness. Based on the data, typical psychological profiles of young individuals at increased risk for affective disorders were identified. It was found that even a single traumatic episode may lead to impairments in emotional regulation and a decline in social functioning.
Conclusions. The article emphasizes the importance of early psychological screening, professional support, and the development of preventive interventions for youth who have experienced psychological trauma, in order to prevent the chronicity of emotional disorders and the deepening of social isolation.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Zoreslava Kryzhanovska, Nataliia Kordunova, Vladyslav Mariukha
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