Mood States and the Reporting of Life Changes.
Abstract
The relationship between mood state and self-reports of life changes was examined. Several investigations have shown correlations between depression and life changes, yet the direction of this relationship is unclear. By experimentally manipulating the depressive mood state in the present study, it was possible to assess the impact of mood state on responding to a measure of life stress; the Life Experiences Survey (LES). Subjects completed two life stress protocols: One during an introductory psychology class session, and a second after their participation in a mood induction technique. The results indicated that the depressive mood state was successfully manipulated, yet mood state did not differentially affect responses to the LES. These findings suggest that life stress may be causally related to depression, rather than depressive states increasing the probability of endorsement on life stress inventories. Further corroborating evidence was provided by examining individual differences in Sensation Seeking. Subjects identified as high sensation seekers were particularly sensitive to the mood manipulation, however, the LES protocols of high sensation seekers were not affected by mood state.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA054285
Entities
People
- Irwin G. Sarason
- James H. Johnson
- Judith M. Siegel
Organizations
- University of Washington