Complications associated with surveying medical student depression: the importance of anonymity
Ruth E Levine1, Carmen Radecki Breitkopf, Frederick S Sierles
1The University of Texas Medical Branch, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rebecca Sealy Room 6.220, Galveston, TX 77555-0193, USA. rlevine@utmb.edu
Objective:
To evaluate students' attitudes and concerns regarding potential repercussions of completing the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).
Methods:
A survey based on focus group data was developed and distributed.
Results:
One hundred and ninety-one of 400 surveys (48%) were returned. Of 160 students who remembered completing the BDI, 31 (19%) admitted to concerns about the research, and nearly 10% admitted to recording dishonest answers.
Conclusions:
These findings emphasize the importance of conducting anonymous assessments of medical students, particularly when assessing sensitive psychological states.
Related Concept Videos
Surveys
Blind Procedures
Blinding
Ethical Standards II
Nurses are entrusted with upholding various ethical principles and standards. Nurses forge solid therapeutic relationships using trust, empathy, autonomy, confidentiality, and professional competence.
Confidentiality is crucial, embodying respect for individual privacy and...


