Differential causal roles of dysfunctional and automatic thoughts in depression

This research tested an integrated model derived form Beck's cognitive theory of depression. The integrated model postulated dysfunctional attitudes as a cognitive moderator and automatic thoughts as a cognitive mediator in the relationship between negative life events and depressive symptoms. In Study 1, 355 undergraduates completed the Life Experiences Survey, the Dysfunctional Attitude Scale, the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire, and the Beck Depression Inventory. In general, the structural equation analyses confirmed not only the integrated model but also the symptom model, one of the competing models, where negative cognitions are a consequence of depression. Study 2 reexamined the two models with two-wave panel data of 200 undergraduates who completed the four scales twice, with 3 months between testing sessions. The structural equation analyses on these data also confirmed both of the two models. These results were discussed in relation to the possibility of a model with a vicious circle between negative cognitions and depression