Study Examines Social Skills and Depression in Adolescent Dating

Overview of the Research

A recent study has explored the relationship between social skills and depression among adolescents who date versus those who do not. The findings, published in the Journal of School Health, challenge existing beliefs about the benefits of dating in adolescence.

Methodology

The study focused on 594 tenth graders, utilizing self-reporting methods alongside teacher-reported evaluations. Researchers assessed various parameters, including social skills, leadership qualities, depression levels, and the quality of positive relationships.

Key Findings

The research revealed no significant differences in self-reported positive relationships among different dating groups. However, students identified as part of the ‘low’ dating group received notably higher teacher evaluations in terms of social skills and leadership. Additionally, this group reported lower levels of depression, both in teacher assessments and self-reports. Interestingly, there were no significant differences in suicidal ideations among the groups.

Implications of the Results

These findings contradict the common belief that adolescents who date develop superior social and emotional skills. Instead, the results indicate that those who do not date may be better adjusted than their dating peers. Researcher Orpinas commented, “In summary, we found that non-dating students are doing well and are simply following a different and healthy developmental trajectory than their dating peers.”

Recommendations

The authors emphasize the importance of recognizing non-dating as a valid option for healthy development. They advocate for health promotion interventions in schools to support adolescents’ choices regarding dating. “As public health professionals, we can do a better job of affirming that adolescents do have the individual freedom to choose whether they want to date or not, and that either option is acceptable and healthy,” the authors noted.

References

Douglas B, Orpinas P. Social misfit or normal development? Students who do not date. J Sch Health. 2019; DOI: 10.1111/josh.12818
News release. Sept 6, 2019: Teens who don’t date are less depressed and have better social skills. https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-09/uog-twd090619.php