Diagnostic specificity of the dependent and self-critical personality dimensions in major depression

J Affect Disord. 1992 Sep;26(1):59-63. doi: 10.1016/0165-0327(92)90035-5.

Abstract

Validational studies of self-critical and dependent personality dimensions as vulnerability factors for depression have been tested primarily with depressed samples, employing research designs devised to address state vs. trait and trait-situational congruity issues. In this study we examined the diagnostic specificity to depression of these two personality dimensions, comparing Self-Criticism and Dependency scores as measured by the Depressive Experiences Questionnaire (DEQ) in two samples of outpatients: (1) panic disorder with agoraphobia; and (2) non-psychotic, unipolar major depression. As hypothesized, the two groups differed on Self-Criticism, with the depressed group scoring higher, but no differences were found for Dependency. These findings were similar even when depressed mood was partialed out. These results complement a growing body of research associating Self-Criticism, as specifically measured by the DEQ, with depression.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anxiety Disorders / diagnosis
  • Anxiety Disorders / psychology
  • Dependent Personality Disorder / diagnosis*
  • Dependent Personality Disorder / psychology
  • Depressive Disorder / diagnosis*
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Panic Disorder / diagnosis
  • Panic Disorder / psychology
  • Personality Inventory
  • Self Concept*