Phenomenology of Major Depression From Childhood Through Adulthood: Analysis of Three Studies

The freq. of depressive symptoms was compared in 4 psychiatrically referred populations: 9 preschool & 95 prepubertal children, 92 adolescents & 100 adults. All had been interviewed & diagnosed according to very similar criteria. Symptoms of depressed mood, diminished concentration, insomnia & suicidal ideation occurred with similar freq. in all groups. Some symptoms increased with age, others decreased. The authors conclude that age modifies symptom freq. but does not alter basic phenomenology.