Depression and anti-depressive behaviour : an investigation of the natural self-regulation of depression

Clear descriptions of depression as a clinical entity exist, as do models concerning its aetiology, maintenance and treatment. A review suggested that current experimental-clinical models function as means of ordering data and stimulating research rather than providing an essential model or method to be followed exclusively. Little research of a naturalistic nature has been undertaken. The aim of the current study was to investigate the naturally occurring, self regulatory behaviours that people engage in when feeling depressed. Hypotheses were advanced concerning the number, frequency of use and helpfulness of anti-depressive behaviours. The utility of anti-depressive behaviour in relation to level of depression, length of hospitalization and social adjustment was also examined. The sample consisted of twenty-five hospitalized depressed people and twenty-five individually matched controls, interviewed twice, using the Anti-depressive Activity Questionnaire (Rippere, 1976). Results indicated that all subjects recognized and attempted to do something to control their depression. The frequency of engaging in anti-depressive behaviour was a persistent factor and did not differentiate between groups. The helpfulness of anti-depressive behaviour was related to levels of depression in that moderately depressed subjects reported anti-depressive behaviour to be less helpful than they did when not depressed. Overall findings were discussed within a self efficacy model of behaviour. Treatment implications were in accord with existing cognitive/behavioural methods involving the scheduling of activities.