US High School Psychology Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The cognitive theory of depression emphasizes the role of negative thought patterns and cognitive distortions in contributing to depressive symptoms. According to this theory, individuals who suffer from depression often have a tendency to interpret events and situations in a negative light, leading to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. These cognitive distortions may include all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and catastrophic thinking.

The theory suggests that it is not just external circumstances that lead to depression but how individuals perceive and interpret those circumstances. For instance, a person might experience failure and conclude that they are worthless or that nothing will ever improve, reinforcing their depressive state. By identifying and altering these negative thought patterns through cognitive-behavioral techniques, individuals can potentially alleviate their depressive symptoms and improve their emotional well-being.

This approach highlights the importance of cognitive processes in the development and maintenance of depression, distinguishing it from theories that focus solely on biological or sociocultural factors.