Depression is a common mental disorder that affects millions of people around the world. Throughout history, various theories have been proposed to try to understand and explain this complex phenomenon. One of the most important theories in the field of depression psychology is the hopelessness theory of depression. In this article we will explore what this theory consists of, what it proposes and how it influences the understanding and treatment of depression.
What is the theory of depression by hopelessness?
The hopelessness theory of depression, also known as learned hopelessness theory, was proposed by psychologist Martin Seligman in the 1970s. Seligman proposed that depression is not only related to biological or genetic factors, but can also be the result of patterns of thought and behavior learned over time.
According to this theory, people who experience depression out of hopelessness tend to interpret the events of their life in a negative way, believing that they have no control over what happens to them and that nothing they do can change their situation. This feeling of helplessness and lack of control can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, central characteristics of depression.
The hopelessness theory of depression is based on the idea that experiences of failure and lack of control in a person's life can lead to the acquisition of negative beliefs about themselves, their environment and their future. These beliefs, in turn, can feed a vicious cycle of negative thoughts and emotions that perpetuate depression.
What does the hopelessness theory of depression propose?
1. Learning Hopelessness
One of the main propositions of the hopelessness theory of depression is that hopelessness is a learned response to situations of lack of control and failure. According to Seligman, people who have repeatedly experienced negative events over which they feel they have no control tend to develop a hopeless thinking pattern. This leads them to believe that no matter what they do, the result will always be negative, which in turn contributes to depression.
2. Negative cognitive bias
Another important proposition of the hopelessness theory of depression is that depressed people tend to have a negative cognitive bias, that is, a tendency to interpret reality in a way that is biased toward the negative. This cognitive bias can manifest itself in the tendency to magnify the negative aspects of a situation, minimize the positive ones, or interpret the information they receive from the environment in a distorted way.
This negative cognitive bias can feed and maintain the belief of hopelessness, causing depressed people to see their situation as irremediable and insurmountable. Through cognitive-behavioral therapy and other psychological interventions, we seek to identify and modify these negative thinking patterns to promote a more realistic and adaptive view of reality.
3. Learned Helplessness Therapy
Based on the hopelessness theory of depression, Seligman and other researchers have developed therapeutic interventions based on the concept of learned hopelessness. These therapies seek to help people identify and challenge their negative beliefs, encourage the development of effective coping skills, and promote a sense of control and autonomy over their life and emotions.
Hopelessness therapy Learned focuses on helping people change their thinking patterns, restructuring their negative beliefs and fostering greater self-efficacy and self-confidence. Through techniques such as reattribution, cognitive reappraisal and problem-solving training, we seek to modify hopeless thoughts and promote a more realistic and optimistic view of life.
Implications of the theory of Hopelessness depression
The hopelessness theory of depression has had important implications in the understanding and treatment of depression. By considering hopelessness a key factor in the development and maintenance of depression, this theory has given rise to innovative and effective therapeutic approaches to address this mental disorder.
Some of the most relevant implications of the hopelessness theory of depression are:
1. Focus on thoughts and beliefs
The hopelessness theory of depression focuses on negative thought patterns and beliefs as triggers of depression. By working to identify and modify these dysfunctional thoughts, we seek not only to alleviate depressive symptoms, but also to prevent relapses and promote lasting emotional well-being.
2. Evidence-based therapies
Thanks to the hopelessness theory of depression, evidence-based therapies have been developed that have been shown to be effective in the treatment of depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral activation therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy are just a few examples of therapeutic approaches supported by research and founded on the principles of learned helplessness.
Conclusions
In summary, the hopelessness theory of depression is a fundamental approach in the understanding and treatment of depression. By considering hopelessness as a central factor in the development of this disorder, this theory has allowed progress in the identification of the mechanisms underlying depression and in the development of effective therapeutic interventions.
Understanding how thoughts and beliefs influence the experience of depression, it is crucial to address this disorder in a comprehensive and sustained manner over time. Through cognitive behavioral therapy, learned helplessness therapy, and other evidence-based interventions, it is possible to help people overcome hopelessness, regain control over their lives, and find a path to recovery and well-being. emotional.