Mindset and Personality Dimensions as Predictors of Depression

Abstract

The study aims to examine the role of mindset orientations and personality dimensions in predicting the magnitudes of depression. A sample of 100 postgraduate students was randomly selected from different colleges of Patna (Bihar) who volunteered to participate. Mindset orientationswere assessed using a 40- item self- developed questionnaire, while personality dimensions (Bhushan, 1969) and depression (Lakshmi, 1992) were measured using standardized scales. Results of the multiple regression analysis showed that the overall model was significant, explaining 53 per centof the variance in depression scores. Neuroticism emerged as the strongest positivepredictor, indicating the higher level of neuroticism was associated with greater depressive symptoms. The factor,“fixed and defensive mindset” also contributed significantly to depression where as extraversion, growth oriented self-belief, social anxiety and open-minded orientation did not significantly predict depression.