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Depressive personality in nonclinical subjects
1Department of Psychology, School of Medicine, State University of New York at Stony Brook 11794-2500.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Depressive personality is linked to mood disorders and family history of mood issues, even in those without personal mood disorder history. This suggests it
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Personality Studies
Background:
- Depressive personality is a distinct trait.
- Its relationship with mood disorders requires further exploration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the reliability of depressive personality in nonclinical individuals.
- To examine clinical correlates, specifically the link with mood disorders.
Main Methods:
- 185 college students were screened for psychopathology.
- Structured diagnostic interviews, including depressive temperament assessment, were administered.
Main Results:
- Depressive personality showed significant associations with major depression and dysthymia.
- Individuals with depressive personality reported greater impairment and had more relatives with mood disorders, even when excluding those with personal mood disorder history.
Conclusions:
- Depressive personality is a clinically relevant condition.
- It is not fully captured by current mood disorder classifications.
- It may represent a component of the broader affective spectrum.