Psycholopathology: Depression

Question 1

What is depression?

Answer 1

A mental disorder characterised by low mood and low energy levels.

Question 2

What are the behavioural characteristics of depression?

Answer 2

• Activity levels
• Disruption to sleep and eating behaviour
• Aggression and self-harm

Question 3

BEHAVIOURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF DEPRESSION
How are the activity levels of depression sufferers?

Answer 3

They have reduced levels of energy, making them lethargic and have a tendency to withdraw from work, school, and social life.

Question 4

BEHAVIOURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF DEPRESSION
What does reduced activity levels cause if extreme cases?

Answer 4

Sufferer cant get out of bed

Question 5

BEHAVIOURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF DEPRESSION
How do sufferers of depression experience disruption to sleep and eating behaviour?

Answer 5

• Sufferers of depression may have increased reduced sleep (insomnia) or the increased need of sleep (hypersomnia).
• Appetite and eating may increase or decrease.

Question 6

BEHAVIOURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF DEPRESSION
Activity levels: What opposite effect can depression lead to?

Answer 6

Psychomotor agitation where individuals are agitated and struggle to relax.

Question 7

BEHAVIOURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF DEPRESSION
Aggression and self harm

Answer 7

Sufferers of depression are irritable and can be physically or verbally aggressive
- Depression can lead to physical aggression directed to self (e.g. cutting and suicide)

Question 8

What are the emotional effects of depression?

Answer 8

• Lowered mood
• Anger
• Lowered self-esteem

Question 9

What are the cognitive effects of depression?

Answer 9

• Poor concentration
• Attending to and dwelling the negative
• Absolutist thinking