Compares symptoms between depressed inpatient preadolescents and adolescents. One hundred and eight hospital records were reviewed with a structured format and were assigned Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III-R) diagnoses. Twenty-two preadolescents and 34 adolescents had symptoms documented that satisfied criteria for major depression. These two groups were compared on demographic and symptom variables. Discusses findings. (KW)