Cognitive approach as an explanation for depression

Question 1

outline how the cognitive approach explains depression

Answer 1

• It suggests depression occurs as a result of faulty internal mental processes such as irrational thoughts and perceptions.
• Becks cognitive theory of depression and Ellis’ ABC model are used to explain why depression occur and they are based on the principles of the cognitive approach.

Question 2

Outline how Becks cognitive theory of depression explains depression

Answer 2

• It suggests negative schemas make an individual view the world and themselves negatively. These negative schemas which contain our ideas and information are formed as a result of negative experiences, this can cause someone to have low self esteem and mood as they will view themselves as negative and worthless.
• It also suggests depressed individuals have cognitive bias and inaccurate mental processing and this is shown as they will ignore any positive events and will emphasise their focus on any negative events in their life.
• The cognitive triad is the result of negative schemas and cognitive bias. It is a model that illustrates how an individual views themselves, the world and the future negatively. this negative perception over time results in depression

Question 3

Outline Ellis’ ABC model for depression

Answer 3

Depression is a result of irrational thinking and beliefs
-An activating event will occur that will make an individual have irrational thoughts

• Irrational thoughts will then develop irrational beliefs
• The activating event and irrational beliefs will then trigger emotional and behavioural consequences which will lead to prolonged periods of low mood and energy levels.

Question 4

identify evaluation points for Cognitive approach as an explanation for depression

Answer 4

• CBT
• It can blame the individual as cognitive approach suggests we are in control of our internal mental processes and therefore it suggests individuals are responsible for having depression.
• Biological approach suggests hormonal profiles and genetics such as Higher levels of serotonin will develop depression a more holistic approach would be to consider both cognitive and biological components that could contribute to the development of depression, therefore we should not just use the cognitive approach and reduce the development of a mental disorder or depression to one theory or explanation.