Depression and the Effects on Human Development and Socialization

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Depression and the Effects on Human Development and Socialization University of Phoenix PSY/450 Aug 22, 2011 Depression and the Effects on Human Development and Socialization Depression is a common disorder that many people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds deal with. In fact, depression affects about 121 million people worldwide (World Health Organization, 2011). Depression according to the World Health Organization is defined as “Depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, low energy, and poor concentration” (para 1). Depression can occur in children of any age and can affect his or her life by making it difficult to develop and socialize properly with others. The following paper will discuss depression and the effects that it has on human development and socialization and also how human development and socialization can create depression. The first item to be examined is the effect that depression has on human development and how human development can create depression. Effects of Depression on Human Development According to Shiraev & Levy (2010) “Human development is viewed as the changes in physical, psychological, and social behavior that are experienced by individuals across the lifespan-from conception to death (p. 196). Quality of life is the most important aspect of a person’s life and can vary in many different ways. It is highly important for children to grow up in homes where they are properly nourished and are taken care of mentally and physically. Every aspect of a child’s life can either affect him or her positively or negatively, depending on the situation. During adolescence, kids have a difficult time trying to fit in at school and at the same time are trying to find themselves and who they want to grow up to be. This stage of life can be a very stressful time

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