Fear of Positive Evaluation in MDD

<b>Objectives:</b> The Fear of Positive Evaluation (FPE) has recently garnered attention in the context of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Several studies have reported on the role of anhedonia in experiencing FPE, highlighting a need for further research in this area. Accordingly, the current study aimed to investigate FPE among patients with MDD with high levels of anhedonia. Specifically, this study compared the level of FPE among depressed inpatients with low and high anhedonia, and healthy controls. This study also examined the potential association between FPE and Probabilistic and Reinforcement Learning (PRL), which is considered a component of anhedonia. <b>Method:</b> Clinical inpatients with MDD (33 = high in anhedonia, 35 = low in anhedonia) and 35 healthy controls were compared in terms of FPE level. Data collection tools included a computer-based probabilistic reward test and the FPE scale. <b>Results:</b> Results revealed that MDD patients with high anhedonia reported significantly higher levels of FPE than those with MDD and low anhedonia and healthy controls. FPE was significantly correlated with PRL in all groups. Third, regression analyses revealed that after controlling for group and social anxiety, PRL significantly predicted FPE. <b>Conclusion:</b> Our results indicate that those with MDD and high levels of anhedonia may experience fear of positive evaluation which has implications for clinical practice.controls