Informed Consent Form
Title of Study: The Impact of Cognitive Engagement on Self-Reported Depression and Anxiety Levels
Investigators: Roy Cohen, MSc Neuroscience, roy@behavidence.com
Purpose of the Study
This study aims to investigate whether inserting simple mathematical calculation questions between the items of standard mental health questionnaires (PHQ-9 for depression, GAD7 for anxiety) influences the reported levels of depression or anxiety. Your participation will contribute valuable data to understanding potential methods for improving the accuracy of self-reported measures in mental health.
Study Description
If you decide to participate, you will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will complete the standard PHQ-9 or GAD7 questionnaire. The other group will complete a modified version of the questionnaire that includes simple mathematical calculation questions between each mental health question. Participation will take approximately 15-20 minutes of your time.
Risks and Discomforts
There are minimal risks associated with this study. Some participants may find answering personal questions or performing mathematical calculations mildly stressful. You are free to skip any question you do not wish to answer.
Benefits
There are no direct benefits to you for participating in this study. However, your participation will help researchers understand how cognitive tasks might influence self-reporting in mental health questionnaires, potentially leading to improvements in how we assess mental health.
Confidentiality
Your responses will be confidential. Data will be reported in aggregate form only, and no individual participant will be identifiable in any reports or publications resulting from this study. All data will be stored securely and will only be accessible to the research team.
Voluntary Participation
Your participation in this study is entirely voluntary. You are free to withdraw at any time without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
Contact Information
If you have any questions about the study or your rights as a participant, please contact roy@behavidence.com.
Consent
By accepting and answering the questionnaire you declare you have read and understood the information provided above. I have had the opportunity to ask questions and have them answered to my satisfaction. By signing below, I agree to participate in this research study.