| Abstract: | Reviews the book, Handbook of depression in children and adolescents by John R. Z. Abela and Benjamin L. Hankin (see record 2008-01178-000). The editors of this book embraced the ambitious objective of assembling a comprehensive review of the burgeoning literature on the etiology, prevention, and treatment of depression in children and adolescents. The book is divided into five parts. In an unusually brief introductory chapter, the editors emphasise the need for a critical analysis of the research on diverse theories of the etiology of depression in young people and coverage of interventions based on current theories. It is clear that this objective is met throughout the book. Abela and Hankin warn the reader that the reviews may generate more questions than answers. They hope the book will inspire the development of integrative and developmentally sensitive models. The book provides a comprehensive overview that clearly conveys the vibrancy of research in this area. The current format separates research on etiology from that on intervention. The authors of individual chapters do a good job of briefly highlighting the etiological factors on which the interventions are based. In a future edition, it would be very helpful for the editors to play a more explicit role in providing integrative syntheses to weave the themes together. In addition, to lay the foundation for the inclusion of positive psychotherapy and positive youth development programs, it would be useful to include a chapter addressing resilience and protective factors. In conclusion, this book will be appreciated by clinical scientists and scientist-practitioners alike. Abela and Hankin are to be congratulated for editing a book that convinces the reader that this is an exciting research area with great promise for further development of prevention and treatment of depression in children and adolescents. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
