Wetherall, K., Robb, K. A. and O'Connor, R. C. (2019) Social rank theory of depression: A systematic review of self-perceptions of social rank and their relationship with depressive symptoms and suicide risk. Journal of Affective Disorders, 246, pp. 300-319. (doi:10.1016/j.jad.2018.12.045) There may be differences between this version and the published version. You are advised to consult the publisher’s version if you wish to cite from it. http://eprints.gla.ac.uk/188539/ Deposited on: 26 July 2019 Enlighten – Research publications by members of the University of Glasgow http://eprints.gla.ac.uk Social rank theory of depression: A systematic review of self-perceptions of social rank and their relationship with depressive symptoms and suicide risk Karen Wetherall1* Kathryn A Robb2 Rory C O’Connor1 Journal of Affective Disorders 1 Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Scotland 2 Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Scotland *Corresponding author: Karen Wetherall, Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Academic Centre, Gartnavel Royal Hospital, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, 1055 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0XH, UK; E-mail:
[email protected] 1 Abstract Background: Depression is a debilitating illness which is also a risk factor for self-harm and suicide. Social rank theory (SRT) suggests depression stems from feelings of defeat and entrapment that ensue from perceiving oneself of lower rank than others. This study aims to review the literature investigating the relationship between self-perceptions of social rank and depressive symptoms or suicidal ideation/behaviour.