Abstract

The hypothesis that the unique mechanism of action of cognitive therapy (CT) for depression involves change in underlying cognitions (schema) has not been supported by empirical studies; instead, many therapies seem to produce cognitive change. Likewise, evidence fails to support the hypothesis, drawn from the cognitive theory, that change in underlying cognitions protects patients from relapse. We argue that methodological problems may explain these empirical disconfirmations of the cognitive theory. In particular, the failure to activate latent underlying cognitions before assessing them prevents investigators from adequately testing mode-specific hypotheses about the mechanism of action of CT. A similar difficulty may plague tests of mode-specific hypotheses about the mechanisms of action of other therapies.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call