Depression Theory
10 theories available
In-Depth Explanation
Depression Theory
Explore the theoretical foundations of depression—from Beck's cognitive model to learned helplessness to modern neurobiological perspectives on mood disorders.
Beck's Cognitive Triad
Aaron Beck's foundational model of how three interconnected patterns of negative thinking—about self, world, and future—create and maintain depression.
Learned Helplessness & Depression
How repeated experiences of powerlessness lead to giving up—and practical steps to rebuild agency and escape the helplessness trap.
Hopelessness Theory
Understanding how negative outcome expectations combined with helplessness create a specific subtype of depression—and how to challenge hopeless thinking.
Rumination Theory
How repetitive, passive thinking about problems prolongs and deepens depression—and evidence-based strategies to break the rumination cycle.
Behavioral Activation Model
The powerful insight that action precedes motivation—and how scheduling valued activities can break the depression-inactivity cycle.
Reinforcement Theory
Lewinsohn's model of how reduced positive reinforcement from your environment creates and maintains depression—and how to rebuild reward.
Loss/Attachment Theory
How attachment bonds and losses shape vulnerability to depression—understanding the deep human need for connection and security.
Anger Turned Inward
Freud's insight that depression often involves aggression redirected against the self—and how to access and redirect hidden anger.
Interpersonal Theory
How relationship patterns—grief, disputes, transitions, and isolation—contribute to depression, and the path to healing through connection.
Social Support Theory
The protective power of social connection against depression—understanding different types of support and how to build your network.