Subjective age — the age an individual "feels" — is a central component of identity and emotional experience. While many studies link a younger subjective age to better well-being, our research focuses on the role of subjective age within psychotherapy and among clinical populations. We examine how subjective age relates to symptoms and well-being, whether it changes throughout treatment, and if shifts in subjective age mirror emotional and functional improvements.

We approach subjective age as a multidimensional construct (encompassing areas such as physical functioning, mental state, cognition, and appearance). Using advanced tools like network analysis, we aim to identify specific patterns and "trajectories" connecting various dimensions of subjective age with depression over time. Preliminary findings indicate a strong correlation between subjective age and depressive symptoms. Furthermore, changes in subjective age during therapy may reflect significant therapeutic progress, serving as a promising marker for monitoring advancement and understanding mechanisms of change within the therapeutic relationship.

This research is led by Dr. Sharon Ne'eman-Naprastek.