Although symptoms of depression likely interfere with creative thinking, rates of mood disorders appear to be higher than average in creative samples. Previous research has shown that a possible link between depression and creativity might best be explained by self-reflection, defined as the tendency to ponder or contemplate information related to the self. However, previous findings are constrained by the use of nonclinical student samples and the inability to examine the role of specific diagnoses associated with depressive symptoms. To extend previous research, the present study investigated cross-sectional relationships between depressive symptoms, self-reflection, brooding, and the generation of original and valuable ideas in a transdiagnostic psychiatric sample (n ϭ 230). Results from path analyses showed that across the total sample, self-reflection did not significantly relate to outcomes. In contrast, depressive symptoms related to lower originality, and brooding related to higher value. Relationships were not moderated by a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. These findings suggest that depressive symptoms relate to different aspects of creative thinking (i.e., the ability to come up with original vs. valuable ideas) in contradictory ways. We discuss implications for the study of creativity, and emphasize the need to communicate these findings accurately and effectively in clinical contexts to support recovery and mood stability.
IntroductionAdolescent exposure to alcohol‐related content on social media is common and associated with alcohol use and perceived norms; however, little is known about how exposure differs by the source of the content (e.g., peer or ‘influencer’). The purpose of this study was to utilise qualitative methods to compare adolescent perspectives on peer‐ versus influencer‐generated alcohol content on social media.MethodsNine virtual semi‐structured focus groups were conducted with adolescents (aged 15–19 years), following a general script aimed at ascertaining adolescent comparative perspectives on peer and influencer alcohol‐related media content and the contexts in which it occurs.ResultsFive main themes emerged: (i) although both influencers and peers post predominantly positively‐valenced alcohol content online, adolescents perceived some differences between these posts; (ii) adolescents perceived their peers to be more cautious and strategic when posting about alcohol than influencers are; (iii) the decision to engage with peer or influencer alcohol‐related posts is influenced by a number of factors; (iv) both peer and influencer posts were perceived to send the message that drinking is acceptable, normal or cool; and (v) adolescents believed they are more likely to be influenced by peers' alcohol posts than influencers' alcohol posts, with some exceptions.Discussion and ConclusionsFuture studies should aim to further understand the unique attributes and circumstances in which exposure to peer and influencer alcohol‐related posts impact adolescent alcohol‐related cognitions and behaviours. This knowledge will inform prevention and intervention efforts, such as media literacy training and media‐specific parenting practices.
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