Social comparison and depression: people with mild and moderate intellectual disabilities

MacMahon, P. and Jahoda, A. (2007) Social comparison and depression: people with mild and moderate intellectual disabilities. American Journal on Mental Retardation, 113(4), pp. 307-318.

Abstract

There has been limited research on the role of sociocognitive factors in depression with people who have a mild intellectual disability. However, an association has been found between negative social comparison and depressed mood. We extend previous work by including individuals with clinical depression. A between-groups design of 18 depressed versus 18 nondepressed participants was used. Depression measures were administered, along with measures of self-esteem and social comparison. Participants reported the salience of the social comparisons they made. Depressed participants reported significantly more negative social comparisons; the nondepressed group reported that the positive comparisons they made were more salient. These results have implications for cognitive behavior interventions and the possibility of working with people in the context of their interpersonal beliefs.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: MacMahon, Dr Pamela and Jahoda, Professor Andrew
• Authors: MacMahon, P., and Jahoda, A.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Clinical Specialities
• Journal Name: American Journal on Mental Retardation