Cognitive explanation to treating depression

Question 1

What are the 2 elements involved in treating depression

Answer 1

Cognitive element - Identify irrational thoughts/replace them

Behavioural element - Tests beliefs using behavioural experiments/hw

Question 2

Outline CBT in general

Answer 2

1) Initial assessment - Problems identified
2) Goal setting - Client and therapist set goals
3) Challenge irrational thoughts through Beck’s cognitive therapy OR Ellis’s REBT
4) Homework

Question 3

Describe Beck’s cognitive therapy

Answer 3

Negative thoughts related to negative triad are challenged

Therapist/client look at evidence to support/refute irrational thoughts

Reality testing used

Homework is set e.g. Record all enjoyment (Used to see if more therapy is needed)

Question 4

Describe Ellis’s Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy

Answer 4

ABC model extended to ABCDEF

Challenges irrational thoughts/replaces them

D - Disputing irrational thoughts
Logical disputing - Clients logic is questioned
Empirical disputing - Therapist seeks evidence for clients knowledge

E - Effects of disputing
F - New feelings

Question 5

What is behavioural activation

Answer 5

Client takes part in activities that reduce sadness e.g. exercise

These activities are normally avoided by depressed people

Question 6

Evaluate the cognitive approach to treating depression

Answer 6

Success may be due to relationship with therapist, not actual therapy

Requires motivation to complete hw and complete sessions, time, money

Research shows CBT as effective as other methods e.g. antidepressants - counter - study done on kids

Reductionism vs holism