Behavioral Models Of Depression Research Articles

Conditions Which Occasion Depression: A Review of Three Behavioral Models

The behavioral models of depression proposed by Ferster (1966, 1973), Lewinsohn (1974a, 1974b), and Seligman (1973, 1975, 1978) are summarized and the variables proposed in the models are evaluated. While no one variable has been related conclusively to onset of depression, there is sufficient evidence regarding the effects of these variables to justify further investigation. Most research to date has been directed toward either characterizing depression by correlating various measures of depressive behavior or demonstrating the relation between individual variables and reduction in depression. Correlational research facilitates the specification of the definition of depression. Research on reduction in depression contributes to the development of effective intervention techniques. A theoretical understanding or prediction of depression onset will require research demonstrating antecedents to depression. Problems of such research are discussed and suggestions for future strategies for research are offered.

Lerntheoretische Konzepte der Depression

From a behavioural point of view, the phenomenon of depression was explored relatively late. Generally, the behavioural models of depression are related to a pattern characterized by a reduced social repertoire, e.g. by ‘a reduced frequency of emission of positively reinforced behaviour’ (<i>Ferster</i>). Accordingly, different models are distinguished today, e.g. the social-reinforcement model, the model of ‘learned helplessness’ (<i>Seligman</i>) and the avoidance model (<i>Mc Auley and Quinn</i>). It seems to be doubtful if the characteristic details of depression consist only of a deficiency in behaviour. Thus, ruminations or sleep disturbances, as stage-by-stage sleeping, can be considered as behavioural plus. Considering the importance of the psychophysiological results of <i>Lader</i> or the psychopathological considerations of <i>Berner</i>, more emphasis should be put on the influence of cognitive processes, the effect of proprioceptive stimuli or the significance of neurophysiological activation.