[ preliminary study on the correlation of depression and pre menstrual syndrome [PMS] with meta cognitive beliefs in female university students]

ABSTRACT

This study was aimed to investigate the relationship between depression and Pre Menstrual Syndrome [PMS] with Meta Cognitive beliefs in female university students. This was a correlation analytical study executed on the female students of psychology studying at psychology and education school of Isfahan University in 2007-2008. Thirty students were randomly selected. The instruments used for data collection included the Meta Cognition Questionnaire [MCQ] and the Beck Depression Inventory [BDI], as well as a researcher-made questionnaire for assessment of Pre Menstrual Syndrome [PMS]. Data was analyzed using the SPSS-13 software and the regression analysis method. A significant correlation was found between the mean scores of the negative Meta Cognitive beliefs subscale [referring to the beliefs of dangerousness and uncontrollability of worry] with the mean scores of PMS [p < 0.05]. Also, there were significant correlations between the mean total scores of all dysfunctional Meta Cognitive beliefs and the mean scores of depression during the menstrual period [p < 0.05]. Meta Cognition may play a role in development and perpetuation of PMS and depression in women