Mechanisms of recurrent depression: a cognitive battle model and some preliminary results

Abstract

Theoretical models of cognitive mechanisms assumed to be involved in recurrent depression are discussed and a cognitive battle process between compensatory coping strategies and the automatic processing of negative information is suggested. Preliminary support for the model comes from a study that investigated preferences for positive and negative tape-recorded self-statements in clinically depressed (CD), previously depressed (PD) and never depressed (ND) individuals. The results showed (1) a positive correlation between dysfunctional attitudes and dysphoric symptoms in CDs and PDs, but not in NDs; (2) NDs preferred positive self-statements, whereas CDs preferred neither positive nor negative self-statements; (3) PDs exhibited different patterns of preference depending on the levels of dysfunctional attitudes and dysphoric symptoms. For example, simultaneous high levels of both dysfunctional attitudes and dysphoric symptoms in PDs resulted in a preference for positive self-statements. This finding is discussed as a possible compensatory strategy of avoiding negative information in PDs. Clinical implications for treatment and prevention of depression are discussed. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.