Qualitative analysis of dysfunctional attitudes in Chinese persons suffering from depression

Objectives: To explore the characteristics of dysfunctional attitudes among Chinese depressed persons. Participants and Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted on 20 Chinese depressed participants, with dysfunctional attitudes pertaining to themes concerning: 'vulnerability', 'need for approval', 'role performance within family hierarchy', 'familial harmony', 'relational harmony', 'imperatives', 'fate', 'face', 'fairness', and 'success- perfectionism'. Results: Themes related to interpersonal and family issues were dominant in their profile of dysfunctional attitudes. New themes such as 'face' and 'fate' were identified. Cultural influences contributing to these dysfunctional attitude characteristics were discussed. Conclusion: To enhance the treatment effectiveness and rehabilitation from cognitive behavioural programmes in Chinese subjects suffering from depression, culturally sensitive attitudes should be attended to.