Johnny: A Hypothetical Case of Depressive Symptoms
This week, we continue our exploration of our hypothetical teenage boy, Johnny. While in our previous segment, Johnny was somewhat recluse to himself and falling short in his academic affairs, this week, we examine another presentation of depression.
Over the past few weeks, Johnny has been showing more anger and irritability. He seems off to his parents. When he comes home, he instantly escapes to his room, shuts the door, and is not seen until dinner.
His parents miss him and want to spend quality time with their son. When he does come out to eat, he will watch a cartoon or YouTube on his phone and return to the game upon finishing.
Johnny’s parents are confused. His grades are stable, and he is showing no visible signs of depression. He is maintaining his GPA, and his online social relationships are flourishing. However, when they ask him to go out of the home, he will often refuse, be very squirmy in public, and lash out at his parents or siblings in an aggressive manner.
Johnny will often explain, “you just don’t understand.” His parents, although concerned, want desperately to know what is happening with their oldest child.
The Depth Psychology Perspective
In today’s segment, I continue my exploration of the signs and symptoms of childhood depression. I focus on anger and anxiety as a foundation from which depression manifests as well as expresses itself in a hypothetical case example of John, a teenage boy that is having a hard time adjusting to the lock-down because of COVID-19. I then focus on practical parenting advice for parents to implement with their teens to help curb the depressive symptoms present.