DEPRESSION [cognitive explanation] Flashcards
Which 2 cognitive models are used to explain depression?
BECK’S COGNITIVE THEORY
ELLIS’ ABC MODEL
What are the 3 parts to Beck’s cognitive explanation?
Faulty information processing
Negative self-schema
The negative triad
What is the effect of faulty information processing?
Sufferers make logical errors in their thinking and the way they process information around them, leading to distorted perceptions of the world
What are some examples of faulty thinking?
All-or-nothing Overgeneralisation Negative mental filter Disqualifying positives Jumping to conclusions Magnification Minimisation Mislabelling Personalisation Blame
What is a negative self-schema?
A set of expectations about themselves that are essentially pessimistic
What is the effect of a negative self-schema?
It acts as a mental framework for how sensory information is interpreted, causing faulty thinking
What is the negative triad?
Three forms of negative thinking that are typical of someone with depression
What 3 types of thinking form the negative triad?
NEGATIVE VIEW OF SELF
NEGATIVE VIEW OF THE FUTURE
NEGATIVE VIEW OF THE WORLD
What are 2 studies that support Beck’s cognitive theory?
GRAZIOLI + TERRY assessed 65 pregnant women before and after birth & found that those with a higher cognitive vulnerability were more likely to suffer post-natal depression
CLARK + BECK reviewed research and concluded that there is solid support for vulnerable cognitions causing depression, as they can be seen BEFORE depression
Why is Beck’s cognitive theory useful for practical application?
It forms the basis of cognitive-behavioural therapy, which challenges the negative triad and faulty thinking
What is a criticism of Beck’s cognitive theory?
It doesn’t account for extreme anger and more complex emotions seen in sufferers, such as hallucinations and delusions
= doesn’t explain all aspects
How does Ellis’ ABC model explain depression?
Depression is caused by irrational thoughts which affect behaviour and emotional state
What are the 3 components of the ABC model?
ACTIVATING EVENT
BELIEFS
CONSEQUENCES
What are examples of consequences in the ABC model?
Consequences can be undesirables emotions or behaviours, such as withdrawal, anger, or low mood
How is Ellis’ ABC model practically useful?
It helps with therapy, as challenging irrational thoughts is a major part of CBT
