Mapping Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Factors of Depressive Symptoms in Early Adolescence: A Network Approach

Background: Early adolescence (ages 10–14) is a critical developmental stage marked by rapid psychosocial changes. Understanding how depressive symptoms interact with both intrapersonal and interpersonal factors during this period is essential for effective prevention and intervention.Methods: We analyzed cross-sectional data from 2,185 adolescents aged 10–14, assessing depressive symptoms, intrapersonal factors (academic stress and self-compassion), and interpersonal factors (attachment style, family functioning, and multidimensional perceived social support). A Gaussian Graphical Model (GGM) and Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) were employed to identify: (1) bridge constructs linking symptoms with intra- and interpersonal domains; and (2) potential directional pathways among variables.Results: Three key bridge nodes emerged: motor retardation/restlessness, academic stress, and attachment anxiety. These nodes served as critical connectors between depressive symptoms and their associated domains. The DAG analysis indicated that perceived family support acted as an upstream ancestor node, influencing depressive symptoms indirectly through self-compassion, academic stress, and attachment anxiety. Furthermore, feedback loops revealed that affective symptoms could intensify academic stress and attachment anxiety, thereby triggering downstream symptoms.Conclusion: Findings underscore the distinct clinical manifestation of depression in early adolescence. For the early identification of adolescent depression, efforts should take into account not only emotional indicators but also behavioral withdrawal and energy-related signs, rather than relying solely on overall symptom severity scores. Interventions for this age group are likely to be most effective when deployed across multiple levels, including intrapersonal, interpersonal, and symptom-focused domains, rather than being confined to a single area.