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New research indicates that people who highly prioritize their honor and perceive a low reputation may experience increased depressive symptoms over time.

Risk of Depression in Honor-Valuing People

The study, published in The Journal of Social Psychology, aimed to explore predictors of depression and suicide, particularly in cultures of honor. These cultures emphasize social reputation, which can manifest differently for men and women. 

Prior research suggested maintaining and defending one's reputation in these cultures could lead to mental health challenges, but direct evidence linking perceived reputation damage to depression was lacking.

Researchers, including Stephen Foster from Penn State York, conducted their study with 302 participants recruited through Cloud Research. Participants were surveyed in mid-June, with a follow-up survey in mid-August. The sample had an average age of 41.11 years and included 42% males and 58% females, predominantly white, non-Hispanic individuals.

Scaling Honor and Depression

The study utilized the Honor Concerns Scale to assess how important honor is to individuals. Participants rated statements describing honor, such as it being one of the most important things to a human being. To evaluate personal reputation, participants rated their reputation within their social circle and community. Depressive symptoms were measured using the 7-item depression subscale of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS).

Reputation and Risk of Depression

The researchers discovered that individuals who placed high importance on honor and perceived their personal reputation negatively were more likely to experience increased depressive symptoms over time. This relationship remained significant even when controlling for initial levels of depression and perceived reputation, as well as gender. The study also found that perceived damage to family reputation exacerbated depressive symptoms in individuals with high honor concerns.

Implications on Honor Cultures

The findings suggest that both personal and family reputation concerns can significantly impact mental health in honor-endorsing individuals. This relationship appears to affect both men and women equally, despite cultural expectations of honor differing by gender. The results provide insights into the mechanisms contributing to higher depression and suicide rates in honor cultures.