Related Experiment Videos
[Effects of a preventive intervention program for improving self-complexity on depression among college students]
Junko Kawahito1, Masashi Hori, Yasumasa Otsuka
1Department of Psychology, Graduate School of Education, Hiroshima University, Kagamiyama, Higashi-hiroshima 739-8524, Japan. j-kawahito@hiroshima-u.ac.jp
Summary
This study developed a self-complexity intervention for college students. The program increased positive self-complexity and reduced depression, suggesting a link between a complex self-concept and improved mental well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Self-complexity (SC) theory posits that individuals with more differentiated and numerous self-aspects experience better psychological adjustment.
- College students often face stressors that can impact their self-concept and mental health.
- Existing interventions for enhancing psychological well-being in students often lack a focus on self-complexity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an intervention program aimed at increasing self-complexity in college students.
- To examine the effects of this intervention on positive self-complexity (P-SC) and negative self-complexity (N-SC).
- To investigate the relationship between changes in P-SC and levels of depressed mood post-intervention.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial with 40 college students assigned to either an intervention or control group.
- The intervention group received psycho-education on SC and engaged in daily self-aspect recording for one week.
- Self-report questionnaires assessing depression, SC, P-SC, and N-SC were administered at pre-test, post-test, and follow-up.
Main Results:
- The intervention group showed a significant increase in P-SC at the post-test and a marginal increase at follow-up compared to the control group.
- No significant changes were observed in N-SC for the intervention group.
- Structural equation modeling indicated that higher P-SC was associated with lower depressed mood in the intervention group after the program.
Conclusions:
- A brief psycho-educational intervention can effectively enhance positive self-complexity in college students.
- Increased positive self-complexity is linked to reduced depressive symptoms, highlighting its potential as a protective factor.
- This intervention offers a promising avenue for improving college student mental health by fostering a more differentiated self-concept.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Self-Discrepancy and Its Effects
Self-discrepancy theory explains how people compare their actual self to their ideal and ought selves and how mismatches between these self-guides can lead to emotional distress. Developed by E. Tory Higgins, the theory distinguishes among three components of self-concept: the actual self, the ideal self, and the ought self. These refer respectively to how individuals perceive themselves, how they aspire to be, and how they believe they are obligated to be. Emotional well-being, self-esteem,...
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,...
01:25Benefits of Self-Esteem
Self-esteem—an individual's overall evaluation of their worth—plays a complex role in psychological functioning and well-being. It is often associated with many positive traits, such as confidence, optimism, and perseverance. Individuals with high self-esteem typically experience better sleep, manage peer pressure more effectively, and report greater life satisfaction. Conversely, low self-esteem has been consistently linked with increased risks of depression, anxiety, and poor academic or...
02:45Self-Discrepancy Theory
One influential perspective on what motivates people's behavior is detailed in Tory Higgin's self-discrepancy theory (Higgins, 1987). He proposed that people hold disagreeing internal representations of themselves that lead to different emotional states.
01:26Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques I
Stress prevention and management are crucial for maintaining well-being and building resilience. Techniques to manage stress include cultivating qualities like conscientiousness, a sense of personal control, and self-efficacy. Each of these traits significantly reduces stress and promotes healthier lifestyle choices and outcomes.
Conscientiousness
Conscientious individuals tend to be organized, responsible, and disciplined. They prioritize completing tasks and following structured routines,...
Conscientiousness
Conscientious individuals tend to be organized, responsible, and disciplined. They prioritize completing tasks and following structured routines,...
01:30Community Based Intervention
Community-based interventions in mental health represent a paradigm shift from institution-centered care to treatments embedded within the fabric of local communities. By prioritizing inclusion and leveraging existing societal structures, this approach fosters a supportive environment conducive to addressing mental health challenges while promoting individual dignity and agency.
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...