Depressive Symptoms in 5–6-Year-Old Children: The Role of Family Resilience and Family Functioning

Abstract

This study examined the relationships between depressive symptoms observed in children aged 5–6 and two family-related variables: family resilience and perceived family functioning. Using a quantitative correlational survey design, the study was conducted with 255 parents selected through criterion sampling and voluntary participation. Data were collected through the Childhood Depressive Symptom Assessment Scale, the Family Resilience Scale, and the Perceived Family Functioning Scale. Following assumption testing, Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, and a three-step hierarchical multiple regression analysis controlling for demographic variables were performed. The findings indicated that several subdimensions of family resilience and family functioning were significantly associated with distinct patterns of depressive symptoms in children. In particular, self-efficacy and commitment to life emerged as more salient components of family resilience, whereas intra-familial communication and positive affect, together with boundaries, stood out as stronger predictors within family functioning. Overall, the results suggest that family processes in early childhood are meaningfully related to children’s depressive symptoms and underscore the importance of family-focused preventive and supportive interventions.