The Role Of Perceived Maternal Autonomy Support In Predicting Adolescents' Depressive Symptoms: Insights From Self-Determination Theory

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the impact of maternal autonomy support on adolescents' depressive symptoms through the framework of Self-Determination Theory. This theory posits that experiencing autonomy support in close relationships enhances the mental well-being of adolescents. Previous research indicates that perceptions of maternal autonomy support correlate with lower levels of depressive symptoms among adolescents. This study specifically examines whether perceived maternal autonomy support serves as a predictor of depressive symptoms in this demographic. We hypothesized that higher levels of perceived maternal autonomy support would significantly lead to lower depressive symptoms. The sample included 508 adolescents (265 boys and 243 girls, ages 15-19) from both public and private schools in Karachi, Pakistan. To measure maternal autonomy support and depressive symptoms, we utilized the Perceptions of Parents Scale (Robbins, 1994) and the Reynolds Adolescents Depression Scale (RADS-2; Reynolds, 2002), respectively. Linear regression analysis was performed to explore the relationship between perceived maternal autonomy support and depressive symptoms. The results indicate that maternal autonomy support is a significant predictor of depressive symptoms in adolescents.