Lewinsohn's Behavioural Theory of Depression. Revolutionary, yet Overgeneralising (PDF)

Essay from the year 2020 in the subject Psychology - Diagnostics, grade: A, University of Edinburgh, language: English, abstract: In order to evaluate Lewinsohn's theory of depression, his three hypotheses will be examined by drawing from empirical research studies and alternative psychological theories. It is proposed that Lewinsohn's early behavioural theory was revolutionary for our understanding of the aetiology and symptomatology of depression, but overgeneralises the heterogeneity of the disorder.

According to Lewinsohn's theory, depression is caused by a low, or lack of response-contingent positive reinforcement, meaning that insufficient reinforcement causes a reduction of behaviours as well as dysphoria which characterise the main symptoms of depression.

There are three hypotheses about how a lack of reinforcement arises: Firstly, the environment does not provide sufficient reinforcement; secondly, the individual does not obtain the necessary social skills to receive reinforcement in an environment in which it is actually available; and thirdly, even though the individual obtains reinforcement, they are unable to enjoy it.When one of these antecedents arises, maladaptive behaviours follow, which themselves lead to lack or loss of positive reinforcement or receiving negative reinforcement.