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Pubertal timing and internalizing psychopathology of adolescent females: evaluating the maturation disparity hypothesis
Pauldine, Michael R.
Pauldine, Michael R.
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dissertation
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2017-12
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Dissertation
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Electronic dissertations
Electronic dissertations
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Abstract
Previous research has demonstrated a robust link between early pubertal timing and increased risk for anxious and depressive symptoms among female adolescents. Although a
number of explanations have been proposed, the most widely accepted the maturation disparity
hypothesis has yet to be empirically tested. This hypothesis posits that the discrepancy
between physical and psychological maturation among early physical developers increases risk
for internalizing psychopathology, and empirically testing this hypothesis was the primary aim of
this dissertation. Additional aims included replicating the commonly found association between
early pubertal timing and psychopathology, as well as tracking the trajectory of adolescent
egocentrism across adolescence. A community sample of 137 girls age 12 to 15 years old (M =
14.32, SD = 1.03) completed self-report measures on demographics, physical and social cognitive
development, and anxiety and depressive symptomatology. Results indicated that
earlier pubertal timing was predictive of an increase in depressive symptoms, but was not
associated with anxious distress. Also, contrary to expectations, imaginary audience ideation did
not follow an inverted-U trajectory, as suggested by Elkind's (1967) theory and other previous
research; however, the declining trajectory was consistent with Lapsley's (1993) "new look"
model and accompanying literature. Partial support was found for the maturation disparity
hypothesis. The difference between physical and psychological development significantly
predicted depressive symptoms, while earlier pubertal timing and the interaction of pubertal
timing by more advanced physical than psychological development were marginally significant
predictors. Anxiety was also associated with a greater discrepancy between physical and
psychological maturities, although neither pubertal timing nor the interaction term were
significant. Clinical applications and directions for future research are highlighted.
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Thesis (Ph.D.)-- Wichita State University, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Dept. of Psychology
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Wichita State University
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Copyright 2017 by Michael R. Pauldine
All Rights Reserved