Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 15, 2026
07:57
A New Method for Inducing a Depression-Like Behavior in Rats
Published on: February 22, 2018
Social network determinants of depression
J N Rosenquist1, J H Fowler, N A Christakis
1Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. jrosenqu@gmail.com
Molecular Psychiatry
|March 17, 2010
Summary
Depression can spread through social networks, affecting friends and neighbors up to three degrees of separation. This study highlights the contagious nature of depressive symptoms within social connections.
Area of Science:
- Social epidemiology
- Network science
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Depression etiology is complex, with social factors playing a significant role.
- Previous research has not fully explored person-to-person transmission of depressive symptoms within social networks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively investigate the potential for person-to-person spread of depressive symptoms.
- To examine network-level determination of depressive symptoms using longitudinal data.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a large, interconnected social network (12,067 individuals) from the Framingham Heart Study over 32 years.
- Application of longitudinal statistical models to assess associations between depressive symptoms in individuals and their social contacts.
- Utilized Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scores from three measurement waves (1983-2001).
Main Results:
- Strong correlations found between an individual's depressive symptoms (low or high CES-D scores) and those of their friends and neighbors.
- This association extended up to three degrees of social separation.
- Female friends demonstrated a particularly strong influence on the spread of depression.
Conclusions:
- Network phenomena are relevant to the epidemiology of depression.
- Depressive symptoms exhibit contagious properties within social networks.
- Further research into social network influences on depression is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Depressive disorders result from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, each contributing uniquely to the development and persistence of the condition. Understanding these factors provides critical insight into the multifaceted nature of depression.
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
01:30Social Relationships and Well-Being
The significance of social relationships in psychological well-being is a well-established area of inquiry within social psychology. Research consistently demonstrates that the presence of meaningful, supportive relationships enhances emotional health, while the absence or deterioration of such connections can contribute to psychological distress. Relationships serve as a foundation for emotional support, identity, and social belonging, all of which are critical to an individual’s overall...
01:18Depression: Overview
Depression is a prevalent mental illness marked by persistent sadness and lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities. It can take several forms, including major depression, persistent depressive disorder, and bipolar I and II disorders. Symptoms range from emotional changes like chronic worry to physical changes like sleep disturbances and suicidal thoughts. From a neurobiological perspective, depression is believed to be triggered by abnormalities in the brain's prefrontal cortex,...
01:25Importance of Need for Affiliation
The need for affiliation is a fundamental human motive that drives individuals to form and maintain interpersonal relationships. This universal drive varies in intensity among individuals due to genetic predispositions and life experiences, shaping it into a relatively stable personality trait. Social inclusion enhances emotional well-being by fulfilling the need for affiliation, whereas social exclusion leads to distress, negative emotions, and cognitive impairments.Psychological and Emotional...
01:27Depressive Disorders: MDD and Dysthymia
Depressive disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by pervasive feelings of sadness, diminished pleasure in life, and a significant impact on daily functioning. These conditions are most prevalent in individuals during their 30s and affect women at twice the rate of men. Contrary to popular belief, younger individuals are generally more susceptible to these disorders than older adults. Two key types of depressive disorders include Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and...
01:28Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterized by an intense fear of social situations where one might face humiliation, rejection, embarrassment, or negative evaluation. This disorder leads individuals to avoid activities like casual conversations, public speaking, or seemingly simple tasks such as eating, signing documents, or swimming, in public settings. Its impact extends beyond discomfort, often significantly interfering with daily functioning and quality of life.