Ten ways to name depression: an exploratory investigation in an adult Bangladeshi group

Description

There is a range of mental health disorder classifications, definitions, and assessment tools are available, and most of them followed Westernised postulation. Researchers frequently translated these tools into another non-western language and utilised in this culture. This method is crucial for expanding research. Nonetheless, participants in a non-western culture may interpret the item differently, and that could influence the response. We tested participant’s understanding of a common mental health disorder (depression) through a mixed method study. A group of university students and community participants (N=201) responded on a vignette. In these vignettes, we portrayed a character who showed typical symptoms of depression. Participants named the disorders, possible causes, and possible solutions. There was a range of responses, they both mentioned the term “depression” or a symptom of depression (e.g., frustration)/ Moreover, 15% of the participants were not sure about the symptom. Primary findings suggested both similarities and dissimilarities. Many participants understood the term and responded to it accordingly while others were unbeknownst of the term. It may have possible implication on assessment of depression and general mental health disorder in non-western contexts.

Period	2018
Held at	Sydney Postgraduate Psychology Conference
Event type	Conference
Location	Sydney, Australia, New South Wales