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[Depression and aggression in Amish persons]
1Psychiatrische Universitätsklinik Bern, Ostermundigen.
Der Nervenarzt
|September 1, 1994
Summary
Despite lower hostility, Old Order Amish show higher depression rates. This study found no reciprocal link between hostility and depression in this pacifist community, suggesting other factors influence Amish mental health.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Sociology
- Anthropology
Background:
- The Old Order Amish, a conservative religious group, exhibit significantly higher depression rates compared to the general population.
- This community practices absolute pacifism, leading to a life characterized by low hostility and aggression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential relationship between hostility and depression within the Old Order Amish population.
- To determine if a reciprocal relationship exists between suppressed hostility and increased depression in this unique cultural group.
Main Methods:
- A study was conducted on 43 Old Order Amish individuals.
- Participants completed the Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory and the Beck Depression Inventory.
Main Results:
- Amish participants scored significantly lower on hostility and higher on depression compared to normal population norms.
- A positive correlation (0.45; p < or = 0.002) was observed between total hostility and depression scores.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that the hypothesized reciprocal relationship between hostility and depression is unlikely in the Old Order Amish.
- The high prevalence of depression in this community may be influenced by factors other than hostility levels.