Heterogeneity of Depression Among Chinese Adolescents: Results of Latent Profile and Network Analysis

Depression is a significant psychological concern affecting adolescent development, yet research on latent subgroups and symptom interactions remains limited. Guided by an individual-centered approach and psychopathological network theory, this study surveyed 3,704 Chinese adolescents ( M age = 16.19, SD = 0.44) to explore latent subgroups of depression and their symptom networks using latent profile and network analysis. Three profiles emerged: normal, latent pathological, and pathological, with gender significantly predicting membership. Core symptoms included upset and low mood (normal and latent pathological) and poor appetite and low mood (pathological). Network comparisons revealed significant group differences. Findings highlight the need to monitor male students’ mental health and target core symptoms like upset, low mood in interventions.