Depression: cognitive explanation Flashcards
(14 cards)
What does Beck’s (1967) cognitive theory suggest?
Some people are more vulnerable to depression due to cognitions
What are the three components that make up Beck’s cognitive theory?
Faulty information processing, negative self-schema and the negative triad
What is faulty information processing?
Focuses on the negative aspects, ignoring the positives, blowing small problems out of proportion and thinking ‘in black and white’
What is a negative self schema?
Viewing yourself in a negative way
What are the components of the negative triad?
Negative view of the world
Negative view of the future
Negative view of the self
What was Ellis’ 1962 model called?
Ellis’ ABC model
What did Ellis propose about poor mental health?
Due to maladaptive irrational thinking
What does ABC stand for?
Activating event
Beliefs
Consequences
What is activating event?
Negative events that trigger irrational beliefs
What is beliefs?
Irrational belief of why the event occurred
What is consequences?
Emotional and behavioural consequences
What is a strength of the cognitive explanation (practical applications)?
practical applications in CBT
cognitive aspects of depression can be identified and challenged
patient can be encouraged to test whether their irrational thoughts are true
What is a weakness of the cognitive explanation? (biological)
Biological approach suggests that genes and neurotransmitters may cause depression
Zhang et al (2005) found low levels of serotonin in depressed people
What is a limitation of the cognitive explanation? (client vs situation)
Blames the client rather than situational factors
Cognitive explanation suggests that the client is responsible for their disorder
+ gives client the power to change the way things are
- may cause a therapist to ignore other factors
