Which risk factor for depression involves early adverse experiences that may lead to ongoing psychological difficulties?

Childhood maltreatment is recognized as a significant risk factor for developing depression later in life due to its profound and lasting impact on psychological well-being. Adverse experiences during formative years, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, or any harmful environment, can disrupt normal developmental processes. These experiences can lead to patterns of negative thinking, difficulties in emotional regulation, low self-esteem, and impaired interpersonal relationships, all of which contribute to the vulnerability to depression.

Research consistently shows that individuals who have experienced childhood maltreatment are at a higher risk for various mental health issues, including mood disorders like depression. The effects of such trauma can persist long into adulthood, often manifesting as chronic psychological difficulties, making childhood maltreatment a critical area of focus when assessing risk factors for depression.

Other options like family history of psychiatric illness, parental marital conflict, and parental substance abuse can also contribute to the risk of depression but do not directly involve adverse personal experiences in the same way that childhood maltreatment does.