題目: The relationship between depression and impulsivity

氏名: 小高 美穂

担当教員: マーク・H・B・ラドフォード


Objective: Several previous studies have reported that there are differences by sex in the risk factors for negative behavior, such a suicide attempt. The purpose of this thesis is to focus on the relationship between depression and impulsivity, a personality trait associated with negative behaviors, such as suicide, and possible sex differences on the relationship. Based on the results from previous studies, we hypothesized that 1) there is a correlation between depression and impulsivity, and 2) depression and impulsivity are likely to be more strongly correlated in males than in females. Method: 120 students from Hokkaido University and 20 psychiatric patients from Hokkaido University Hospital were included in the present study. Results: The correlation between depressive tendency and impulsivity was higher in males than in females, and the correlation was significant only in male students. Conclusion: Impulsivity may be a predictor of suicidal behavior. The results from the present study showed a strong correlation between depressive tendency and impulsivity only in males. Furthermore depressive tendency correlated with the sub-factors of impulsivity - Attentional Impulsiveness and Nonplanning Impulsiveness. It is possible that in males, depression leads to quick decisions being made (Attentional Impulsiveness), and a "present orientation" or a lack of "future consideration" (Nonplanning Impulsiveness), then results in committing a suicidal behavior. Further studies are needed.


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