The relation of nonverbal processing ability of faces and voices and children's feelings of depression and competence.

The relation between nonverbal processing ability and feelings of depression and competence was evaluated in children between the ages of 7 and 11 years (N = 142). They were administered tests to measure their receptive nonverbal ability and feelings of depression and competence. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that nonverbal ability was related to feelings of competence in boys and girls, but to feelings of depression only in boys. It was concluded that specific nonverbal deficits are associated with generalized negative feelings in children. Implications for adjustment are discussed.