Cognitive explanation

• What does the 'A' in Ellis's ABC model stand for?

  Activating events
• What does Ellis's ABC model focus on?

  Situations triggering irrational thoughts
• What does the 'B' in Ellis's ABC model represent?

  Irrational beliefs
• How do irrational beliefs affect depressed individuals according to Ellis's model?

  They perceive minor issues as major disasters
• What does the 'C' in Ellis's ABC model signify?

  Consequences
• What are the consequences of activating events in Ellis's model?

  Emotional and behavioral consequences
• What are the limitations of Ellis's ABC model regarding depression?


  • Cannot explain all types of depression
  • Many suffer without apparent causes
  • Patients may feel frustrated with the theory
• How does the ABC model apply in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

  • Identifying irrational beliefs is crucial
  • Challenging these beliefs aids in curing depression
  • Focuses on faulty cognitions and event interpretation
• What is the cognitive triad according to Beck's theory?

  Negative thoughts about self, world, future
• What leads to a dysfunctional view of oneself in Beck's cognitive triad?

  Three types of automatic negative thinking
• What are the three components of Beck's cognitive triad?

  Self, world, future
• What do negative schemas cause in depressed individuals according to Beck?

  Development of negative self-perceptions
• What is an ineptness schema?

  Expects failure in depressed individuals
• What does a self-blame schema lead to in depressed individuals?

  Feeling responsible for all misfortunes
• How do negative self-evaluation schemas affect depressed individuals?

  Remind them of their worthlessness
• What is faulty information processing in depression?

  Focusing on negatives, ignoring positives
• What is black-and-white thinking?

  Seeing the world in all-or-nothing terms
• What are the strengths of Beck's cognitive theory of depression?

  • Supporting research evidence from Grazioli and Terry
  • Positive correlation between cognitive vulnerability and postpartum depression
  • Increased understanding of cognitive basis leads to effective treatments
• What are the limitations of both Ellis's ABC model and Beck's theory?

  • Cannot explain all aspects of depression
  • Does not address hallucinations and anger
  • Patients may feel frustrated with unaddressed symptoms