Psychopathology - the cognitive apporach to treating depression

Question 1

What does cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) aim to do?

Answer 1

Aims to challenge irrational thoughts

Question 2

Describe what’s involved in Beck’s CBT

Answer 2

Beck’s CBT:
- the client is encouraged to keep a diary of their thoughts and anxieties so the therapist can show the client their negative automatic thoughts
- a form of reality testing occurs - irrational thoughts being challenged by the therapist using examples which contradict such thoughts
- behavioural techniques

Question 3

Give an example of cognitive behavioural therapy (Beck’s CBT)

Answer 3

e.g. if the client thinks they’re not clever the therapist may produce evidence which disputes the thought

Question 4

How are behavioural techniques used to treat Depression? (Beck’s CBT)

Answer 4

• behavioural techniques are also used often as homework
  e.g. a severely depressed person may be given small goals to achieve, such as making a cup of tea
• if the abnormality is linked to certain situations, then problem solving skills can be taught such as social skills

Question 5

Other than Beck’s CBT, name another example of CBT

Answer 5

• Another CBT is Ellis’ rational emotional behaviour therapy (REBT)
• this extends the ABC model to ABCDE with the D standing for dispute and the E for effect

Question 6

What is the main technique used in Ellis’ CBT?

Answer 6

• The main technique used is to dispute the irrational thoughts and this takes place in a vigorous argument

Question 7

How are irrational thoughts challenged?

Answer 7

• by using empirical evidence to see if the negative belief is supported by actual evidence and logical argument
• in which it is disputed that the negative thoughts follow from facts