A study of maternal depression and OCD: The role of beliefs
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Maternal Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: The role of responsibility, threat and failure beliefs in the duration and intensity of the difficulties experienced.
IRAS ID
237829
Contact name
Gemma Sharkey
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bath
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 9 months, 31 days
Research summary
Pregnancy and the 24 months following birth (the perinatal period) is a time in which many women experience the onset or worsening of mental health problems. A significant amount of research links mental health problems during this time with negative effects on child development, including relationship difficulties and problems with brain development. Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) are two of the problems most frequently seen during this period, but more research is needed to further our understanding of why some women develop difficulties and others do not. \n\nCognitive theory of depression and OCD suggests that these difficulties are caused, at least in part, by negative beliefs and attitudes, which are activated or made worse during stressful life events. To date, there have been few studies examining potentially harmful attitudes and beliefs in the perinatal period. It is therefore important to examine the beliefs held by women with depression and OCD, to see if the theory that thoughts and beliefs influence our emotions is supported in this time period. This could potentially better equip healthcare professionals to both accurately recognise and effectively intervene during this crucial time. \n\nIn this study we aim to recruit three groups of 19 people, one group of people with symptoms of depression, a group of people with symptoms of OCD and a group of people who do not have a clinical problem. They will be asked to answer a series of questionnaires that indicate their beliefs. The questionnaires should take no longer than 60 minutes in total to complete and will be conducted online. \n
REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/SW/0195
Date of REC Opinion
5 Sep 2018
REC opinion
Unfavourable Opinion