A randomized controlled trial evaluating the effects of a depression information decision aid
Date
2016
Authors
Bernstein, Matthew Tyler
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Abstract
Depression is a common mental health problem. This study utilized a randomized,
controlled trial design to assess the effect of a new web-based depression information decision aid compared to general depression information available on a well-known website on important factors involved in decision-making: knowledge of depression and treatment options, stigma, help-seeking attitudes, confidence in making a decision, sense of being well-informed, and preference for different treatment options. Introductory psychology students completed pre-, post-, and follow-up assessments in Study 1, and post- and follow-up assessments in Study 2. Overall, the two depression websites yielded similar responses across the measures, and the information decision aid was not superior to general information on the currently available website. Study 1 participants reported less decisional conflict and felt more informed following the review of the website compared to before website review. There were no changes from pre- to post-assessment on knowledge, stigma, or help-seeking attitudes. Study 2 also found few differences between the groups. Participants in this study indicated reduced stigma one-month after website review, which could be due to a delayed effect of the information, or exposure to other sources of information. In addition, decisional conflict increased and participants felt less informed one-month following the review of the website, compared to just after review. This is not surprising given that different treatment options are likely fresh in their minds just after review compared to one-month later. Given the largely negative findings in the two studies, alternative research approaches to comparing information resources are discussed.
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Keywords
Depression, Information decision aid, Knowledge, Web-based, Treatment