title: [Optimistic bias in help-seeking intentions and behaviors for depressive symptoms].
abstract: The present study investigated the effect of optimistic bias on help-seeking intentions and behaviors in relation to health care professionals and nonprofessionals for depressive symptoms. In addition, the study tested the hypothesis that seeking help from professionals poses a greater threat for self-esteem than from non-professionals. A questionnaire survey (N = 462) using clinical vignettes was conducted with university students. The results suggested that optimistic bias had an impact on help-seeking intentions and behaviors directed towards both health care professionals and nonprofessionals. There seemed to be a relatively stronger threat to self-esteem in help-seeking involving nonprofessionals and a weaker threat in help-seeking involving professionals, contrary to previous studies. The results were explained by the threat to self-esteem and equity theories. Understanding the rationale of optimistic bias and symptom recognition in the help-seeking process may provide relevant information to bridge the service gap in the treatment of depression.
authors: Department of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Education, University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan. umegaki.yusuke@mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp
authors: Yusuke
authors: Y
authors: Umegaki
authors: Masato
authors: M
authors: Kimura
mesh_terms: D001294:Attitude to Health; D015982:Bias; D003863:Depression / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D008297:Male; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology*; D012649:Self Concept; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult