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Interest-Curiosity, Depression, and Peer Relationships Among Chinese Adolescents: A Cross-Lagged, Semi-Longitudinal Study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Based on cognitive-behavioral therapy and the positive emotion expansion and construction theory, this study investigated how interest-curiosity influences adolescent peer relationships through depressive symptoms. Methods: = 0.95). Data were collected in December 2023 (T1) and March 2024 (T2). Semi-longitudinal analyses were employed to examine the relationships among interest-curiosity, depressive symptoms, and peer relationships. Results: The findings revealed that (1) adolescents with higher levels of interest-curiosity tended to experience lower levels of depressive symptoms over time; (2) adolescents who reported higher levels of depressive symptoms were more likely to experience difficulties in peer relationships; and (3) the positive influence of interest-curiosity on peer relationships was explained by its role in reducing depressive symptoms. Conclusion: This study highlights the crucial role of interest-curiosity in adolescent development. The findings suggest that fostering adolescents' interest-curiosity may help reduce depressive symptoms and consequently enhance peer relationships.

Source: Psychology Research and Behavior Management

DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s499158

Authors: Jiali He, Hanshu Liu

Institutions: City University of Macau, Xi'an Eurasia University

Language: English

Topic: Psychological and Educational Research Studies

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,836