cognitive theory as an explanation of depression Flashcards
what are the three negative thought patterns that people might develop according to becks cognitive triad?
negative views about oneslef, negative views about the future, negative views about the world
what are the three stages of Ellis’s ABC Model?
A - activating event (unpleasant event)
B - belief (irrational thoughts)
C - consequence (state of depression)
strengths of cognitive theory as an explanation of depression
takes into account life events - recognises that these events could explain why a person has become depressed
combines nature and nurture - unlike genetic explanation, the cognitive theory accepts that there is often an event that triggers depression
applied to therapy (CBT) - CBT challenges irrational thoughts so we can use it and reduce the use of antidepressant drugs
weaknesses of Ellis’s ABC model as an explanation of depression
difficult to tell whether the irrational thoughts are a cause of the depression or a symptom - how was their behavior/thought process before the diagnosis?
is there always an activating event? - depression may be caused more by biological factors that cognitive ones
how does CBT work?
CBT aims to change the way a person thinks to change the way they act to improve their symptoms
- the patient discusses their symptoms and explain what makes them feel this way, then the therapist attempts to challenge these irrational thoughts
- homework helps the patient practice a more rational thought process
T/F evidence suggests that patients given CBT alongside other treatments such as antidepressants, there tend to have more significant improvement in there symptoms
true
weaknesses of CBT to treat depression
relies on patients wanting to change - lack of motivation means patients might not be able to do all the CBT sessions and homework
expensive
unethical (tells them how they think is wrong) - therapist may abuse their position of power by telling the patient that they should change to suit what they think is ‘normal’
