A systematic review of the antecedents, correlates, and consequences of continuum beliefs about depression

Abstract

• Review investigates socio-demographic correlates of continuum beliefs of depression • Prior experience with depression predicted greater endorsement of continuum beliefs • Continuum beliefs has positive association with increase in pro-social behaviours • No decisive evidence that continuum beliefs would reduce stereotypes of depression Some have proposed that continuum beliefs of mental illness, which define psychopathology in terms of spectra rather than categories, could help reduce the stigma associated with the mental illness. This review considers the prevalence of continuum beliefs about depression in the general population, their socio-demographic predictors, and the relationship between continuum beliefs and social responses regarding depression. To conduct a systematic literature review to synthesise literature on the antecedents, consequences and correlates of continuum beliefs about depression. The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A total of eight eligible studies were subjected to quality evaluation and narrative synthesis. Results revealed that when given the opportunity, most participants endorsed continuum beliefs about depression. Limited research investigated socio-demographic correlates of continuum beliefs, though there was some evidence that prior experience with mental illness predicted greater endorsement of continuum beliefs. Research suggested that continuum beliefs were associated with reduced desire for social distance and increased pro-social behaviour towards people experiencing depression. However, there was insufficient evidence to suggest any effects of continuum beliefs on stereotypes or negative emotional responses. This review synthesises results of only eight studies due to lack of published studies on continuum beliefs of depression. Hence, it prohibits achieving confident conclusions. This review indicated preliminary correlational links suggesting continuum beliefs hold promise as a tool for stigma reduction.