Psychopathology - Cognitive Approach AO3

Question 1

What are the strengths of the cognitive approach?

Answer 1

1. there is a range of evidence to support it. For example Hammen and Kranz depressed participants made more logical errors when interpreting written material which shows that the approach is valid
2. it can be applied to CBT (a successful treatment) as it forms the basis and allows therapists to identify and challenge the cognitive aspects (irrational thoughts) of their patients

Question 2

what are the weaknesses of the cognitive approach?

Answer 2

1. it ignores situational factor (life events or family problems) by suggesting that clients are responsible for their disorder
2. it’s reductionist as it doesn’t consider the importance of the biological approach to depression like drug therapy (which is usually used along side CBT)

Question 3

what are the counter arguments?

Answer 3

suggesting that clients are responsible for their disorder could provide them with the power to change the way things are