Back to Psychology Notes
depression causes treatments
A LevelPsychology~5 min read
Overview
This lesson explores the multifaceted causes of depression, encompassing biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. We will then delve into various treatment approaches, evaluating their effectiveness and underlying principles.
Biological Explanations of Depression
Biological theories of depression primarily focus on **neurochemical imbalances** and **genetic predispositions**. The **monoamine hypothesis** suggests that depression is caused by a deficiency of monoamine neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine) in the brain. Evidence for this ...
Unlock 6 More Sections
Sign up free to access the complete notes, key concepts, and exam tips for this topic.
No credit card required · Free forever
Key Concepts
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): A severe mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and other symptoms impacting daily life.
- Neurotransmitter Imbalance Hypothesis: The theory that depression is linked to dysregulation of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
- Cognitive Distortions: Irrational and biased ways of thinking that contribute to negative emotional states, as proposed by Aaron Beck.
- Learned Helplessness: A psychological state where an individual feels a lack of control over their life outcomes, leading to passivity and depression.
- +3 more (sign up to view)
Exam Tips
- →When discussing causes, ensure you provide a balanced view, integrating biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors rather than focusing on just one.
- →For treatments, critically evaluate their effectiveness and discuss potential side effects or limitations. Use studies and examples to support your points.
- +3 more tips (sign up)
More Psychology Notes