Evaluate

• The model assumes that the individual becomes depressed due to an irrational evaluation of a situation; however, the evaluation may actually be considered rational 


  loss of a job results in a loss of income and possibly the family home would not necessarily involve an irrational assessment of the situation. This might be especially so in some circumstances, such as if finding alternative work is not easy due to lack of employment in the area they are living.
• The model is too reductionist 


  it focuses on faulty cognitive processes assuming that depression is simply the result of irrationally evaluating a situation. However, it fails to take into account biological factors such as the role of neurotransmitters in depression and how these may influence how we perceive situations and events.
• Depression that comes from nowhere may be better explained by innate biological processes
• It is hard to conclude cause and effect using this model 


  the ABC model suggests that the individual make irrational or faulty conclusions about events but it is unclear whether these irrational thoughts cause the depression or occur as a result of the depression.
• Ellis’ model

  Supports the idea of free will
• Ellis’ model

  Assumes that the individual is responsible for their illness
• Individual thinking they are responsible for the illness


  If therapy does not work, it might actually make them more depressed as they could feel that it is their fault
• Alternative theories

  Depression is determined by irrational thoughts due to brain differences or neurotransmitters which are not functioning correctly
• Irrational thoughts

  Come from the individual but they have little control over it
• Therapy doesn’t work

  If the individual thinks the cause of their depression is beyond their control, they will feel less of a failure