Citation

Reavley N, Jorm A. Youth Stud. Aust. 2011; 30(2): 33-40.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, National Clearinghouse for Youth Studies, Australia)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

To identify predictors of depression stigma in a group of Australian school students, participants (1,804 students aged 12-15 years) completed a questionnaire covering sociodemographic information, recognition of depression in a vignette, stigma towards a depressed peer, help-seeking intentions, information from teachers, and student mental health. Results suggested that depression stigma is a multidimensional construct with different factors predicting different aspects of stigma. Increased recognition of depression was associated with an increased belief in depression as a sickness rather than a weakness, but also with an increased belief that those with depression are dangerous and unpredictable. It is likely that multifaceted stigma-reduction interventions are needed, with emphasis on reducing the associations between depression and danger and targeting those of non-English-speaking backgrounds.