What are the characteristic features of major depressive disorder?
Major Depressive Disorder Dysthymic disorder Loss of interest in almost all of life activities. Sad, hopeless, poor sleep, loss of appetite, energy Feelings of unworthiness & guilt. Delusions – often induce feelings of guilt, shame, & persecution. Poor at reality testing Onset & Duration Onset before 40 May occur in episodes Women twice a likely to suffer from depression. Has increased 10 fold in 2 generations US prevalence appears related to loss of faith in family, country, & religion Evaluation Causes Biological Theories Genetic relationship N biochemical hypothesis – level too low. May be many different causes. Learning & Cognitive Theories Exposed to depressive models Few positive reinforcements Develop negative expectations Learned Helplessness Happens whenever all goals and plans are thwarted.
