cognitive approach to explaining/treating depression

• Who suggested the cognitive theory of depression?

  Aaron Beck
• What does Beck's cognitive theory suggest about depressed people?

  They focus on negatives and ignore positives
• What is a characteristic of thinking in 'black and white' terms?

  Seeing situations as all good or all bad
• How do schemas relate to Beck's cognitive theory?

  They help interpret the world based on experiences
• What is a negative view of the world according to Beck?

  The world is a cold, hard place
• What is a negative view of the future according to Beck?

  There's no chance the economy will improve
• What is a negative view of oneself according to Beck?

  I am a failure
• What does Ellis's ABC model stand for?

  Activating event, Beliefs, Consequences
• What triggers irrational beliefs in Ellis's ABC model?

  Negative events
• What is 'musterbation' in Ellis's ABC model?

  The belief that one must always succeed
• What does the belief 'I-can't-stand-it-if-it's' imply?

  It's a disaster when things don't go smoothly
• What does 'utopianism' refer to in Ellis's model?

  The belief that the world must be fair
• What are the consequences of irrational beliefs according to Ellis?

  Emotional and behavioral consequences
• How can believing one must succeed lead to depression?

  Failure may lead to feelings of inadequacy
• What are the strengths of Beck's cognitive theory?

  • Good supporting evidence from studies
  • Identifies cognitive vulnerability in depression
  • Practical application in cognitive behavioral therapy
• What are the limitations of Beck's cognitive theory?

  • Doesn't explain all aspects of depression
  • Depression can involve irrational beliefs
  • Some cases arise without clear activating events
• What is the focus of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

  To clarify patients' problems and identify negative thoughts
• What is the aim of challenging negative thoughts in CBT?

  To identify negative thoughts about self, others, and the future
• How should patients challenge their negative thoughts in CBT?

  By taking an active role in their treatment
• What does the 'patient as scientist' metaphor imply in CBT?

  Patients are encouraged to test the reality of their beliefs
• What should a therapist do if a patient expresses hopelessness?

  Assign homework to challenge their beliefs
• What does REBT stand for?

  Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
• How does REBT extend the ABC model?

  It adds D for dispute and E for effect
• What is the purpose of disputing irrational beliefs in REBT?

  To challenge and change negative thought patterns
• What is an empirical argument in REBT?

  Disputing whether there's evidence for a belief
• What is a logical argument in REBT?

  Disputing whether negative thoughts align with facts
• What is the goal of behavioral activation?

  To decrease avoidance and increase engagement
• What is a proven benefit of behavioral activation?

  It improves moods
• What are the strengths and limitations of CBT?

  Strengths:

  • Supported by a large body of evidence
  • First choice treatment in public healthcare (NHS)

  
  

  Limitations:

  • May not work for severe depression
  • Some patients struggle with cognitive tasks
  • Focuses on present rather than past issues