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Depression predicts interpersonal problems partially through the attitude towards social touch.
Chantal Triscoli1, Ilona Croy2, Uta Sailer3
1Department of Psychology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Clinical Neurophysiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Journal of Affective Disorders
|December 26, 2018
Summary
Depression is linked to interpersonal issues and a negative attitude towards social touch, especially with unfamiliar people. Addressing touch perception may improve relationships in depressed individuals.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Depression significantly impacts interpersonal relationships, with communication, including non-verbal touch, being a key factor.
- Understanding the nuances of social touch is crucial for comprehending depression's effect on social interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between depression, interpersonal problems, and attitudes towards social touch.
- To explore how depression influences an individual's perception and acceptance of physical contact in social contexts.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted with 147 individuals (115 females, aged 21-71) undergoing outpatient psychotherapy.
- Standardized questionnaires were used to assess depression levels (Beck Depression Questionnaire), interpersonal problems (Inventory of Interpersonal Problems), and attitudes towards social touch (Social Touch Questionnaire).
Main Results:
- Individuals with higher depression levels reported more negative attitudes towards social touch, particularly disliking touch from unfamiliar individuals.
- A significant correlation was found between depression severity and the degree of interpersonal problems, partially mediated by attitudes towards social touch.
- Dislike of touch from less familiar people was a stronger mediator in the relationship between depression and interpersonal difficulties.
Conclusions:
- Attitudes towards social touch, especially regarding physical contact with acquaintances, play a role in the interplay between depression and interpersonal problems.
- Incorporating the assessment and potential modification of attitudes towards social touch into therapy for depressed patients may enhance their ability to form and sustain relationships.
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