Predicting frequency, intensity and duration of other people's self-reported depression

The mean predictions were remarkably close to the observed values for all questions, suggesting that people possess higher-order cognitions about the intensity and duration of feelings of depression as well as about frequency.

Abstract

Abstract Ss indicated on 5-point qualitative scales how often they felt depressed, how depressed they usually feel. and for how long their feelings of depression usually last and estimated what proportion of the group would choose each scale point. Parallel questions concerning the hypothetical ‘average person’ were included along with these ‘self’ items. The observed and mean estimated percentages of the group using the scale points were compared. The mean predictions were remarkably close to the observed values for all questions, suggesting that people possess higher-order cognitions about the intensity and duration of feelings of depression as well as about frequency. The possible social significance and functions of these sorts of cognitions are discussed in relation to recent studies of illness behaviour.