| dc.description.abstract | Learned helplessness theory and its subsequent reformulation propose that a pessimistic
explanatory style renders an individual vulnerable to depression. A large body of
literature has supported this association within various samples and utilising a range of
methodologies. No prior study has explored explanatory style and depression among a
New Zealand sample of clinically depressed adults. Furthermore, no prior research has
examined the role of activity level or activity type in relation to these variables. Given
the importance of behavioural activation in recovery from depression, Study 1 aimed to
bridge this gap. The sample consisted of 29 adult clients diagnosed with Major
Depressive Disorder (MDD) and receiving a 20 session protocol of Cognitive
Behaviour Therapy (CBT) as part of The Depression Study; a treatment outcome study
conducted at Massey University, Albany, Auckland, New Zealand. Data were derived
from intake assessment scores for explanatory style and depression severity, as
measured via the Attributional Style Questionnaire (ASQ) and Beck Depression
Inventory–Second Edition (BDI-II) respectively. Data were also derived from several
activity level and activity type indices formulated for Study 1 by the use of information
contained within activity charts; a tool used for a between-session task (homework)
conducted early in CBT. Study 1 supported an association between a pessimistic
explanatory style and depression severity and provisional support was found for the
proposed model of the current project, implicating the role of activity among
interactions between explanatory style and depression. In collecting data for Study 1 it
became apparent that an adaptation to the activity chart may yield greater information
particularly with regard to activity type, such as the extent to which social interaction
occurred. Study 2 of the current research project aimed to compare the original activity
chart with the adapted chart, by grouping The Depression Study clients according to
whether they completed the original (n = 15) or the adapted (n = 8) activity chart, and
comparing the data obtained. Mann-Whitney U tests confirmed that the adapted chart
was more successful in collecting information regarding social interaction and ratings
for mastery and pleasure. It is suggested that the adapted chart could be more beneficial
in contrast to the chart typically used in CBT to date; this advantage could extend across
both research and clinical settings for the examination of client activity. | en |
