Perceived Expressed Emotion and Hopelessness in Patients of Depression

The aim of the study was to assess perceived expressed emotion (EE) and hopelessness in patients of depression. The sample consisted of forty participants diagnosed with a depressive disorder in an age range of 18–45 years. They were assessed using MADRS, BHS & FEICS. A semi-structured interview was done with the key family members. Findings suggest higher mean score on perceived criticism component (PC) of EE than emotional involvement (EI). The findings further suggest that the sample perceived criticism more than emotional involvement, no difference exists between the perception of EE across gender. A strong association between hopelessness and depression is also depicted. It was also found that due to the patients ’illness family members also go through hardships which are usually ignored during the treatment planning. The findings obtained can be utilised in the treatment planning, particularly therapeutic intervention which may involve individual therapy as well as family therapy.