J E Roberts1, A M Shapiro, S A Gamble. 1. State University of New York at Buffalo, Department of Psychology 14260-4110, USA. robertsj@acsu.buffalo.edu
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To investigate the combined roles of level and perceived stability of self-esteem in prospectively predicting depression. DESIGN: Symptoms of depression and anxiety were measured both before and after psychoeducational treatment for depression; level and perceived stability of self-esteem were measured before treatment. METHOD: Participants were 26 adults (16 female), age range 21-75 years. RESULTS: More stable self-esteem was associated with greater depressive symptomatology at treatment completion, particularly among participants who began treatment with the lowest self-esteem. Effects were specific to symptoms of depression in contrast with anxiety. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that a stable, well-consolidated negative self-concept is associated with prolonged depression and a poor response to psychosocial interventions.
OBJECTIVES: To investigate the combined roles of level and perceived stability of self-esteem in prospectively predicting depression. DESIGN: Symptoms of depression and anxiety were measured both before and after psychoeducational treatment for depression; level and perceived stability of self-esteem were measured before treatment. METHOD:Participants were 26 adults (16 female), age range 21-75 years. RESULTS: More stable self-esteem was associated with greater depressive symptomatology at treatment completion, particularly among participants who began treatment with the lowest self-esteem. Effects were specific to symptoms of depression in contrast with anxiety. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that a stable, well-consolidated negative self-concept is associated with prolonged depression and a poor response to psychosocial interventions.