Cognitive Approach to Explaining Depression

• :) RTS Cohen (only use for Beck)

  > tracked the development of 473 adolescents, regularly measuring cognitive vulnerability

  > showing cognitive vulnerability predicted later depression in their life

  > supports that there is an association between negative thinking and depression - Beck's negative triad is an appropriate explanation

  discussion - allows psychologists to screen young people, identifying those at risk of developing depression, and to monitor and intervene (benefits economy)
• :) practical applications

  > the principle of the theory, that depression is caused by negative/irrational thinking, has led to the treatment of cognitive behavioural therapy

  > helps patients to identify, challenge and change negative/irrational thoughts to positive/rational thoughts via disputing

  > important part of applied psychology
• :( cause and effect cannot be established

  > cannot be firmly concluded whether negative/irrational thoughts cause depression or if they are a consequence of it - they can only be linked to depression

  > the cognitive approach cannot be seen as a full explanation
• :( alternative explanation

  > biological approach to explaining depression

  > argues that depression is due to physical factors, such as neurotransmitters - low levels of serotonin cause low mood, rather than negative/irrational thoughts

  > cognitive approach is not the only explanation that should be considered