Application of the Actor–Partner Interdependence Model in Parent–Adolescent Mental Health Knowledge and Depression

ABSTRACT Aim To explore the individual and interpersonal association between mental health knowledge (MHK) and depression in adolescents and one of their parents, and to explore whether gender differences exist between fathers and mothers in these associations. Methods Participants were 3456 father–adolescent dyads and 4478 mother–adolescent dyads, recruited from eight middle schools in Wuhan, who completed self‐report assessments of MHK and depression from September to October 2021. Results With the application of the actor–partner interdependence model, A positive actor effect between MHK and depression in adolescents was found. Adverse partner effects from fathers' MHK and mothers' MHK to adolescent depression were noted and showed no significant difference. Adolescents' depression was significantly associated with parental depression in both fathers and mothers. Conclusion It is implied that milder adolescent depression was associated with lower levels of adolescent MHK, along with higher levels of MHK in both fathers and mothers. For parents, it is important to emphasise the improvement of their own MHK and increase their attention to adolescent mental health problems, as this may contribute to enhancing the mental health of adolescents. Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care This study is instructive and related to family‐based nursing interventions for mental health, emphasising the potential influence of parents in the family on adolescent depressive symptoms. The findings suggest that parental involvement should be encouraged and that the family's role in supporting the child's mental health should be recognised, contributing to the development of relevant policies. Impact This study highlights that higher parental MHK is associated with lower levels of adolescent depression, with no gender differences between fathers and mothers. Family‐based nursing interventions that emphasise mental health education for parents may have an impact on improving depression in adolescents. Reporting Method Guidelines were followed using the STROBE reporting method. Patient or Public Contribution None.