Longitudinal effects of school boarding on adolescent depression: examining the mediating role of parent-child closeness and school connectedness

Results suggest that boarding exacerbates depression risk primarily by undermining school belonging rather than familial bonds, aligning with Stage-Environment Fit Theory's emphasis on alignment with developmental needs. These findings underscore the critical role of school connectedness in adolescent mental health. Priorities should be given to interventions enhancing school connectedness through mentorship, peer support, and autonomy-supportive structures.