Interpersonal sensitivity and dysfunctional cognitions in social anxiety and depression

This exploratory study assessed interpersonal sensitivity and dysfunctional cognitions in patients with social phobia and depression. Thirty patients with social phobia/depression were compared with community sample of 30 participants on measures of interpersonal sensitivity and dependency. The clinical sample also responded to measures of dysfunctional cognitions, anxiety and depression. Test retest reliability for the IPSM was established. Results indicated higher interpersonal sensitivity and dependency in clinical sample and positive correlations between interpersonal sensitivity, dependency and dysfunctional attitudes. Anxiety was associated with both interpersonal measures. The paper discusses implications of interpersonal sensitivity for psychological interventions and cultural differences.