Depressive symptoms and aggressive behavior in children following 2024 earthquake linked to later loneliness

A research team led by associate professor Yasuo Murayama from Kanazawa University has uncovered significant connections between loneliness, depressive symptoms, and aggressive behavior in children impacted by the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake. The study, which involved 634 students aged 8 to 15 from Wajima City in Ishikawa Prefecture, assessed loneliness, depressive symptoms, and social behaviors across three time points between July 2024 and February 2025.

The findings, published in Child Psychiatry & Human Development, demonstrate that heightened levels of depressive symptoms and aggressive behavior in children were linked to increased loneliness at later stages. Furthermore, the study found bidirectional associations between loneliness and depressive symptoms, with depressive symptoms exhibiting a stronger and more consistent relationship with later loneliness than the reverse.

Additionally, the research highlighted that aggressive behavior was associated with reduced subsequent prosocial behavior. While the study does not establish causality, it emphasizes the interconnected nature of mental health struggles faced by children in disaster-affected communities. Professor Murayama expressed relief at the acceptance of the study for publication, but also highlighted the ongoing mental health challenges faced by children and teachers in the affected region.

He hopes this research will contribute to developing supportive measures for children dealing with these issues.