Altruism and Depression
Author Information
Author(s): Fujiwara Takeo
Primary Institution: National Institute of Public Health, Wako-shi, Saitama, Japan
Hypothesis
Is altruistic behavior associated with major depression onset?
Conclusion
Providing financial contributions to individuals other than family members can increase the risk of developing major depression.
Supporting Evidence
- Financial support of 10 or more dollars per month significantly increased the risk of developing major depression.
- Unpaid assistance and emotional support were not significantly associated with major depression onset.
- The study used a nationally representative sample of middle-aged adults in the US.
Takeaway
Helping others can sometimes make you feel sad, especially if you give money to people outside your family.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from the National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS) and its follow-up study, focusing on the impact of altruistic behaviors on major depression.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias and unmeasured confounders could influence the results.
Limitations
The sample size was relatively small, and the study did not measure the motivation behind altruistic behaviors.
Participant Demographics
55% women, 86% white, 90% high school graduates or more, 63% full-time workers, and 75% married.
Statistical Information
P-Value
2.64
Confidence Interval
1.05–6.62
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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