Misperceived effectiveness and the demand for psychotherapy

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Public Economics
Year: 2024
Volume: 240
Issue: C

Score contribution per author:

1.341 = (α=2.01 / 3 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

While psychotherapy has been shown to be effective in treating depression, take-up remains low. In a sample of 1843 depressed individuals, we document that effectiveness concerns are top of mind when respondents consider the value of therapy. We then show that the average respondent underestimates the effectiveness of therapy. An information treatment correcting this misperception increases participants’ incentivized willingness to pay for a $320 therapy from $166 to $176. Our evidence suggests that while information can influence therapy demand by altering beliefs and shifting attention, it may not significantly increase demand unless substantial subsidies are provided.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:eee:pubeco:v:240:y:2024:i:c:s0047272724001907
Journal Field
Public
Author Count
3
Added to Database
2026-01-29