Premenstrual and menstrual mood changes in adolescent women.

Studied the presence and magnitude of menstrual-cycle-related mood changes using standardized measures of depression and anxiety. 158 females aged 15–16 yrs completed the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire and reported the actual date of onset of their next 2 menstrual periods. These Ss and their male classmates were later given the Depression Adjective Check List, Forms A and D, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory twice, 2 wks apart, in an unrelated classroom setting. This study assessed the magnitude of anxiety and depression experienced by the 29 Ss who were tested within 4 days preceding the onset of menstruation and the 23 Ss who were tested during the first 4 days of menstruation. Premenstrual and menstrual test scores were compared with those obtained during the intermenstrual phase of the cycle. No significant differences in mood attributable to cycle phase were found. A control group of males also showed no significant difference in mood. Adolescent women appear to be different from women over 30 who have been reported to show significantly increased state anxiety and depression during the premenstrual phase of the menstrual cycle. (22 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)