Question 1: Define depression and list three common emotional symptoms associated with it.

Answer: Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, and low energy. Three common emotional symptoms include persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness, and irritability.

Question 2: Describe two behavioural signs that might indicate someone is experiencing depression.

Answer: Two behavioural signs of depression are social withdrawal or isolation, and a significant decrease in activity levels or motivation to engage in daily tasks.

Question 3: Explain how a biological explanation might account for depression, mentioning at least one neurotransmitter involved.

Answer: A biological explanation of depression suggests that imbalances in brain chemicals, such as a decrease in serotonin levels, can affect mood regulation and contribute to depressive symptoms.

Question 4: Identify and briefly describe two psychological theories that explain why people develop depression.

Answer: One theory is Beck's cognitive theory, which suggests that negative thought patterns and beliefs about oneself, the world, and the future contribute to depression. Another is the learned helplessness theory, which proposes that repeated failures or uncontrollable events lead individuals to feel powerless and develop depressive symptoms.

Question 5: List two potential social causes of depression.

Answer: Two social causes are experiencing significant life stressors such as the loss of a loved one, or social isolation and lack of support.

Question 6: Describe the cognitive-behavioral approach to treating depression.

Answer: The cognitive-behavioral approach involves helping individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and replace them with more positive, realistic thoughts. It often includes behavioral techniques to encourage engagement in pleasurable activities.

Question 7: Sketch a diagram illustrating the cycle of depression, including at least three stages or components.

Answer: [Sketch should depict: a cycle with arrows connecting three components, such as 'Negative thoughts' leading to 'Low mood,' which leads to 'Reduced activity,' further reinforcing 'Negative thoughts.' The sketch should clearly show the cyclical nature of depression.]

Question 8: What is one ethical consideration when conducting research with individuals who have depression?

Answer: One ethical consideration is ensuring informed consent, making sure participants understand the purpose of the research and any potential risks involved.

Question 9: Suggest one way that understanding depression can help in supporting someone who is experiencing it.

Answer: Understanding depression can help individuals provide empathetic support, encourage professional help-seeking, and avoid stigmatizing behaviours.

Question 10: Identify and explain one limitation of biological explanations of depression.

Answer: A limitation is that biological explanations may oversimplify depression by focusing only on brain chemistry, neglecting social and psychological factors that also contribute to the disorder.