The cognitive approach to treating depression

Question 1

What is CBT?

Answer 1

• cognitive behavioural therapy is based on both cognitive and behavioural techniques.
• This can be done through identifying negative views and challenging them to test their reality.

Question 2

What is REBT

Answer 2

Ellis extends the ABC model to ABCDE, dispute and effect.
This works by identifying irrational thoughts and challenging them vigorously. This includes empirical arguments and logical arguments

Question 3

What is a strengths?

Answer 3

Strength = March compared CBT to antidepressants and a combination of both and found that after 36 weeks, 86% of the individuals using CBT and antidepressants had significantly improved compared to just 81% when using soley CBT and antidepressants

Question 4

What are the two weaknesses?

Answer 4

• It lacks effectiveness for diverse clients and severe cases with learning disabilities as some people with depression are so severe they cant motivate themselves to engage in CBT techniques. Also people with learning difficulties may not be able to understand as it uses complex cognitive techniques
• HIgh relapse rates, there are concerns on how long the effects of CBT last. Shehzad assessed 439 clients every month for 12 months using CBT and 42% relapsed within 6 months with 52% relapsing over a year.