Depression levels of students attending in three primary schools with different socioeconomic levels, in central Sivas

Objective: The study was carried out in order to determine the depression levels of students attending in three primary schools with different socioeconomic levels, in central Sivas. Method: The study, planned as a cross sectional survey, was carried out in three primary schools with different socioeconomic levels between May 23 and June 3. Random selection method was used to select schools. 535 (95.0%) of 563 students attending in these schools between 5-8 class levels, who fulfilled the questionnaire forms completely were included in the study. A questionnaire form defining socioeconomic properties of students and Child Depression Inventory Scale including 27 questions was used. Results: The mean depression levels of students attending in low socioeconomic level school was 13.4 ± 6.3, in mid-level socioeconomic school was 9.7 ± 5.7 and in high socioeconomic level school was 10.5 ± 6.4. When cut point accepted as 19 for the Child Depression Inventory scale, depression prevalence was found to be 13.1% totally, 17.1% in low socioeconomic level school, 9.6% in mid socioeconomic level school, 9.8% in high socioeconomic level school. The mean depression levels of students attending in low socioeconomic level schools was found to be statistically high compared with the schools with high and mid socio economic level (p < 0.05). A significant relationship between depression and age, class levels, number of sister and brothers, socioeconomic levels, occupation and education of parents of the students was found (p < 0.05). Discussion and Conclusion: The results of the study showed similarity with other studies previously carried out. High depression points will be an important clue in identification and differentiation of students who need psychological help. It is very important to cooperate with families and education of them in the participation of these children into society.