What factor is cited as a cause of depression relating to stressful life events?

Stressful life events are often linked to the onset of depression, and sociocultural factors play a significant role in how individuals respond to these events. When examining the context of depression, sociocultural elements include the impact of one's social environment, community, cultural norms, and socioeconomic status. Stressful experiences, such as loss of a job, the death of a loved one, or significant life changes, can disproportionately affect individuals based on their sociocultural background, influencing how they experience and cope with stress.

Understanding the sociocultural approach helps in recognizing that these events do not affect everyone equally; rather, societal expectations, support systems, and cultural responses to emotional distress can all shape an individual's mental health. This perspective is essential in the field of behavioral health, as it emphasizes the importance of considering an individual’s environment and context in assessing and addressing depression.