Complications Associated With Surveying Medical Student Depression: the Importance of Anonymity

The objective of this study was to evaluate students’ attitudes & concerns regarding potential repercussions of completing the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Of 160 surveyed students who completed the BDI, 31 (19%) admitted to concerns about the research, & nearly 10% admitted to recording dishonest answers. These findings emphasize the importance of conducting anonymous assessments of medical students, particularly when assessing sensitive psychological states. (16 refs)