The Impact of Family Functions and Interpersonal Problems on University Students’ Depression

Purpose: This study aimed to identify the effect of family functions and interpersonal problems on depression among university students. Methods: A total of 189 undergraduate students from a university in Changwon City participated in this study. The data was collected through an online survey conducted from September 20 to 25, 2022. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 23.0 statistical program, including descriptive statistics, t-test, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis. Results: Interpersonal problems had the greatest impact on college students’ depression (β=.59, p<.001), followed by satisfaction with life (β=-.24, p<.001), and family functions (β=-.12, p=.022). These variables accounted for 55.1% of the variance in college students’ depression. Conclusions: This research emphasizes that social networks, supportive family environments, and life satisfaction are key factors in preventing depression among college students. College students at risk for depression should be screened and provided with individualized interventions that address a variety of factors, including depressive symptoms, family and interpersonal relationships, and life satisfaction.