Ellis' explanation has led to successful therapy. Irrational negative beliefs are challenged and this can help to reduce depressive symptoms, suggesting that the irrational beliefs had some role in the depression. This is a strength as it has practical application in CBT.
What is a weakness of Ellis' model?
Some depression does occur as a result of an activating event (reactive depression). However, not all depression arises this way. This is a weakness as it shows that Ellis only offers a partial explanation.
What is a weakness of Ellis' model?
It does not explain all aspects of depression: This is a weakness as the explanation does not explain why some individuals experience anger associated with their depression or why some patients suffer delusions.
