The Effects of News About Depression: The Role of Narrative Format and Controllability Attributions

• In Event: Depression, Mental Illness, Mental Health Communication

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of news stories on perceptions of depression. This study investigates whether two factors of media messages (controllability attributions, message format) can elicit sympathy, reduce stigmatizing attitudes, and increase helping intentions. A 2 x 2 between-subjects experimental study (N=243) was conducted, and results show that both framing the cause of depression as uncontrollable and using a narrative format are effective in reducing stigma and increasing the willingness to help people with depression. Although narrative formats affect emotional responses as well as cognitive judgments, controllability attributions may function differently, not influencing sympathy. Theoretical and practical implications of this study are further discussed.

Authors

• Ji Won Kim, Syracuse University

• Tamara Makana Chock, Syracuse U

• Myojung Chung, Syracuse U

• Soojin Roh, Syracuse University