WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT COPING MECHANISMS FOR DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY AMONG ADOLESCENTS: IMPLICATIONS IN PARENTING COUNSELORS

Abstract

While urban parents possess a foundational awareness of adolescent depression and anxiety, a significant gap between their conceptual knowledge and practical communication skills creates confusion and inconsistent support. The research aims to assess the level of parents' knowledge about adolescent mental health disorders, identify the extent of their confusion regarding sudden behavioral changes, and evaluate the supportive practices they employ to help their children cope. Based on a survey of 320 parents in Dhaka, the study found a moderate-to-high level of conceptual knowledge (M = 3.66) but significant gaps in practical help-seeking and communication confidence. Parents reported moderate levels of confusion (M = 3.42), particularly in distinguishing normal adolescent development from clinical distress. While overall support was moderate (M = 3.58), a meaningful minority of parents admitted to maladaptive responses, such as shouting, criticizing, or avoiding emotional discussions. The findings suggest a "practice-action discrepancy" where conceptual awareness does not translate into effective support. There is an urgent need for parenting counselors to shift focus from general awareness to applied skills training, including emotional first aid, role-playing for difficult conversations, and providing clear pathways for professional mental health resources.

+ View Full Abstract