Effects of etiology on perceived helpfulness of treatments for depression

Perceptions of the credibility and helpfulness of various treatments for depression can affect the success of different treatment options. While previous research has demonstrated individual differences in credibility ratings, no studies have evaluated the impact of different etiological theories on the perceptions of various treatment options. In this study, 36 mental health clients and 36 undergraduates rated 7 depression treatments presented first alone, then with 6 different etiological vignettes. All participants considered treatments more helpful when cause and treatment focus were congruent (i.e., both psychological or both physical). Students regarded treatments as less helpful than did clients. We discuss implications for treatment credibility and acceptability research, and suggest ways of presenting to clients etiological information in relation to treatments.