Preventing Depression in the Children of Depressed African American Mothers

The children of depressed women are at an increased risk of developing depression, in
addition to other psychological disorders. Studies show that this effect may occur cross
culturally, and studies of African American mothers with depression show that their
parenting is limited in structure and involvement. Depression may be transmitted from parent
to child through exposure to the depressed parent's negative cognitions, behaviors, and
affect and through stressors of daily life that accompany living with a depressed person.
Previous studies of depression prevention programs for the children of depressed mothers
have proved effective in changing negative behaviors and attitudes. This study will test a
depression prevention program modified to treat the children of depressed, African American
mothers.

Participation in this study will last 2 months. Participants will be randomly assigned to
receive either an eight-session family-based prevention program or a two-session education
control program. Both programs will involve the 8- to 14-year-old child of a depressed
African American mother and any other adult family members who want to be involved.
Participants in the family-based prevention program and their families will meet weekly with
a study therapist to learn about depression, its impact on the family, coping with life
stresses, and thinking skills. Although the treatment always will have the same core
elements, it will be tailored to meet the clinical and cultural needs of each family. The
education program will involve two meetings, one 4 weeks and one 6 weeks after enrollment,
with a study researcher. Participants and their families in the education program will only
receive information on depression and its impact on the family.

Participants will complete assessments at baseline, after 1 month of treatment, and
post-treatment. These assessments will include interviews and questionnaires for both
children and adults about family functioning, environment, and the child.

Inclusion Criteria for Mothers:

- African American

- Has primary current or past-year DSM-IV diagnosis of major depressive disorder,
dysthymic disorder, or depressive disorder not otherwise specified (NOS)

- Parent or guardian and primary caregiver of a child 8 to 14 years old

- Has resided at least part time for the past year with the targeted child

- May be receiving psychopharmacological treatment, psychosocial services, or both

Inclusion Criteria for Children:

- Has an African American mother with a depressive disorder

- 8 to 14 years old

- Resides at least part time with mother

Exclusion Criteria for Mothers:

- Current or lifetime history of schizophrenia

- Current or lifetime history of bipolar disorder

- Current or past-year diagnosis of alcohol or drug dependency

- Serious medical disorder, neurological disorder, condition, or chronic pain that
prevents participation

- Documented mental retardation

- Current suicide risk sufficient to preclude outpatient treatment

Exclusion Criteria for Children:

- Currently in treatment for depression or an anxiety disorder

- Presence of a medical or psychiatric condition contraindicating study intervention,
such as mental retardation, suicidality, or pervasive developmental disorder