THE IMPACT OF FATHERLESS ON DEPRESSION LEVELS AMONG ADOLESCENT GIRLS: AN ANALYSIS USING THE PATIENT HEALTH QUESTIONNAIRE-9 (PHQ-9)

Abstract

Background: Depression is a common mental disorder among adolescent girls, particularly in situations involving fatherlessness. The absence of a father’s role—whether physical, emotional, or psychological—can trigger various psychological problems, including depression. Object: This study aimed to examine the influence of fatherlessness on the risk of depression among adolescent girls using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) at a senior high school in Glenmore District. Method: Two main variables were observed in this study: (1) fatherlessness, measured through the Fatherless Questionnaire covering physical, emotional, and social dimensions (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.910), and (2) depression risk, measured using the PHQ-9, which has previously demonstrated strong reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.936). A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, involving 73 purposively selected female students who met the inclusion criteria.. Results: The findings indicated that the majority of respondents experienced low levels of fatherlessness (45%) and moderate levels of depression risk (42%). Spearman’s rank correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between fatherlessness and depression risk (p = 0.000), with a correlation coefficient of 0.404, indicating a moderate association. Conclusion: These results highlight the need for preventive measures in schools, including early screening, psychosocial support, and structured group therapy or support groups facilitated by school counselors and mental health professionals, to strengthen coping skills among adolescents experiencing fatherlessness.