Aspects of the relationship between cognitive theories and therapies of depression.

Cognitive theories of depression are examined with respect to the relationship between cognition and affect, the assumption that cognitions are accessible and open to modification, and the adequacy of cognitive accounts of the onset and maintenance of depression. The role of social and familial factors in maintaining depression and the extent to which negative cognitions may be based on accurate perceptions of the social milieu are considered. The relationship between cognitive therapy for depression and cognitive theories of depression is noted.