Current situation and influencing factors of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to depression among parents of adolescents with depression

To assess depression-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among parents of adolescents hospitalized with depression and to identify associated factors. Using purposive sampling, we surveyed 138 parents of adolescents with depression hospitalized at our center (December 2023–September 2024). Participants completed a 25-item questionnaire covering knowledge (10 items), attitudes (9 items), and practices (6 items). Group differences were examined using independent-samples t tests or one-way ANOVA (with appropriate nonparametric tests when assumptions were not met). Multiple linear regression was performed to identify factors associated with KAP (overall and by subdomain). Mean standardized scores (0–100) were 54.33 ± 13.59 for knowledge, 59.29 ± 10.93 for attitudes, 73.77 ± 12.20 for practices, and 60.78 ± 7.46 overall. Knowledge, attitudes, and overall scores differed by age, occupation, and education. Knowledge, practices, and overall scores differed by education, monthly income, and residence. In multivariable models, age, occupation, education, and income were independently associated with the overall KAP score (all p < 0.05). Parents of adolescents with depression demonstrated limited disease-related knowledge, comparatively negative attitudes, and moderate practices. These findings highlight the need for targeted psychoeducation and support to improve parental mental health literacy in the inpatient setting.