Preventing Depression in the Children of Depressed African American Mothers

Mothers:

Inclusion Criteria:

• African American
• Primary current or past-year diagnostic and statistical manual (DSM-IV) diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder, Dysthymic Disorder, or Depressive Disorder not otherwise specified
• Parent or guardian and primary caregiver of a child 8 to 14 years old
• Resided at least part time for the past year with the targeted child
• May be receiving psychopharmacological treatment, psychosocial services, or both

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current or lifetime history of schizophrenia
• Current or lifetime history of bipolar disorder
• Current or past-year diagnosis of alcohol or drug dependency
• Serious medical disorder, neurological disorder, condition, or chronic pain that prevents participation
• Documented mental retardation
• Current suicide risk sufficient to preclude outpatient treatment

Children:

Inclusion Criteria:

• Have an African American mother with a depressive disorder
• 8 to 14 years old
• Reside at least part time with mother

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently in treatment for depression or an anxiety disorder
• Presence of a medical or psychiatric condition contraindicating study intervention, such as mental retardation, suicidality, or pervasive developmental disorder