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Psychology & Major Depressive Disorder

Major depressive disorder is a mood disorder that has been documented for centuries. Antidepressant medications may help relieve the physical symptoms of depression. Talk therapy sometimes is also prescribed. Psychologists have explored various theories of the roots of major depressive disorder in hopes of finding a successful treatment method.

  1. Symptoms

    • Of the nine major symptoms of major depressive disorder listed in the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" (DSM-IV), five must be met and interfere with daily functions in order for the disease to be diagnosed. Extreme lethargy and lack of interest in hobbies are among these, as are self-doubt, irrational guilt and anxiety. Negative thoughts may revolve around death and suicide, which 10 percent to 15 percent of diagnosed patients complete.

    Psychodynamic Theory

    • According to basic psychodynamics, we have two minds: conscious and unconscious. The unconscious mind houses our motivations and desires, while the conscious mind acts on them. Sometimes these minds conflict with each another. In depressed people, according to this theory, there are past events and conflicts in the unconscious mind that prevent people from doing positive things to lift their mood. Anger eventually turns into self-hatred, causing negative behaviors with negative results.

    Behavioral Approach

    • The behavioral approach to treatment suggests that social behavior is learned, not innate, and therefore a person's environment and lack of personal skills contribute to depression. Depressed people may have a negative outlook on life because they have not received positive reinforcement for positive behaviors, according to this theory. They may continue to be depressed if they receive the "positive" feedback of attention (even negative attention) from friends and family members.

    Cognitive Theory

    • The cognitive psychological theory about major depressive disorder states that it arises from a faulty system of thinking. This incorrect "wiring" gives credence to mutated judgments and thoughts that arise through observation. These thoughts can also come if people aren't taught how to properly deal with problems and situations. Since depressed people may think differently from others, facts can be misinterpreted and the seriousness of setbacks may be exaggerated. According to theorist Aaron Beck, three main themes frame a depressed person's mindset: "I am inadequate or defective"; "All my experiences result in failure"; and "The future has no hope."

    Psychoneuroimmunology

    • Psychoneuroimmunology studies the interaction among the mind, body and immune system. In regard to depression, it theorizes that consistent negative stressors can impact the immune system. According to this theory, it is possible that life events and daily stressors could inhibit the production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. Some research has indicated that white blood cell counts increase if a person's stress defenses are weakened.

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