What cognitive explanation for depression focuses on negative thoughts about the self, the world, and the future?

The cognitive explanation for depression emphasizes the role of negative thought patterns and beliefs a person may hold about themselves, their environment, and their future. This approach, often associated with cognitive-behavioral therapy, posits that individuals with depression tend to view themselves and their situations in a pessimistic light, leading to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.

By focusing on these cognitive distortions, the explanation highlights how negative self-talk, generalizing negative experiences, and expecting unfavorable outcomes can contribute to the onset and maintenance of depressive symptoms. This insight encourages therapeutic strategies aimed at challenging and reframing these negative thoughts to promote more balanced thinking and emotional health.

In contrast, the behavioral perspective emphasizes the role of reinforcement and maladaptive behaviors, while the social perspective considers interpersonal relationships and social situations. The biological explanation looks at genetic, neurochemical, and physical aspects influencing mood disorders, without delving into thought processes specifically. Each of these approaches contributes valuable insights but does not capture the core idea of the cognitive explanation as effectively.