抄録
This study investigated whether a documentary-style animated video based on the experiences of people with depression reduces stigma toward depression among viewers. Furthermore, based on reports of perceptual changes in people with depression, we examined whether a directing technique that incorporates these perceptual changes by applying visual effects that reduce saturation and contrast to key scenes is effective in promoting empathy and reducing stigma. Participants (N = 30) were randomly assigned to either a version incorporating visual effects or a control version without them and then completed questionnaires assessing their emotional responses to the video and their stigma toward depression. The results showed that the total stigma score decreased significantly after viewing the video (average decrease of 2.13 points, p<.001), confirming a main effect of the video itself. The effect size was d=0.46(95%confidence interval [-0.066,0.987]), indicating a small to moderate effect size. On the other hand, while the visual effects significantly reduced valence (a decrease of 0.67 points, p <.05), no significant changes were observed in the overall stigma scores. Statistical analysis revealed negative correlations between valence and appetite reduction ratings and specific stigma items, suggesting that these emotional factors may be associated with stigma evaluations. Although this study is an exploratory experiment with a small sample size, it demonstrates the potential mechanism by which animated videos using scientifically grounded visual design can reduce stigma toward people with depression.
