Understanding cognitive vulnerability to depression within the LGBTQ+ community.
LGBTQ+ individuals face higher rates of mental health difficulties than the general population (Stonewall, 2018). Alarmingly, no evidence has been found to suggest that these inequalities are reducing, which calls
for urgent research attention. This elevated risk for poor mental health outcomes has been described theoretically, in that members of the LGBTQ+ community may experience uniquely stressful life events, such as discrimination or homophobia. However, we have limited understanding of how exactly this generates risk for mental health outcomes.
Cognitive biases are a symptom of depression, where individuals are biased towards the processing of negative information as opposed to positive information. This can be observed both in those with current symptoms of depression, and those at risk (Orchard & Reynolds, 2018). Understanding cognitive biases, how they present over time, and how they might be triggered is vital to inform mental health interventions and support vulnerable communities. Especially as these biases underpin the first-line recommended psychological treatment for depression, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
This project will apply the study of cognitive biases to understand how LGBTQ+ specific risks can influence mental health outcomes of depression. To begin, a systematic review and narrative synthesis will be performed to categorise LGBTQ+ specific risk factors. This will be followed by a longitudinal study examining how LGBTQ+ specific risk factors interact with cognitive biases over time. The project will then conclude with an experimental study, using mood induction to replicate the effects of LGBTQ+ specific risk factors and understand how cognitive biases might be triggered.