Theories on the development of depression
There are many theories that deal with the development and maintenance of depression. Here are some examples: Lewinsohn’s theory of depression According to Lewinsohn’s theory, depression occurs when you have few positive reinforcers in your life or when you lose previous reinforcers. Amplifiers in this context are rewarding, positive factors that influence your own behaviour.
For example, a loss of amplifiers occurs when you suddenly lose your job or a loved one from whom you have received positive reinforcement. If you receive little recognition for your own efforts, this results in sadness, withdrawal and passivity. Aaron Beck’s cognitive model Typical for many depressives are mental distortions and negative beliefs.
Thoughts like: “I am haunted by misfortune. Bad things only happen to me. ” or “No matter what I try, it doesn’t work out.
I’m just a failure. “…often shape the thoughts of those affected. These in turn control their behaviour and lead to distorted views of reality.
As a result, even small problems suddenly appear unsolvable. Psychoanalytic views Psychoanalysts often see the causes of depression in the negative experiences of childhood. Thus, permanent crisis-like relationships with siblings and parents can lead to a lack of self-esteem and general pessimism. Furthermore, it is assumed that especially children who are strongly oriented towards the expectations of their parents and thereby put their own needs in the background are more likely to suffer from depression than others.
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