G Parker1. 1. School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sidney, Australia.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To review critically alternative models of depression. METHOD: Contrasting historical models are noted and some results of a study overviewing a temperament-based model for the non-melancholic disorders are presented. RESULTS: Limitations to all models are considered. CONCLUSION: As depression can present as a mood state, a syndrome, a disorder and as a disease, it is unwise to assume that a single model will suffice. A pure temperament diathesis model of non-melancholic depression is unlikely to be sufficient and would benefit from testing of additional personality constructs.
OBJECTIVE: To review critically alternative models of depression. METHOD: Contrasting historical models are noted and some results of a study overviewing a temperament-based model for the non-melancholic disorders are presented. RESULTS: Limitations to all models are considered. CONCLUSION: As depression can present as a mood state, a syndrome, a disorder and as a disease, it is unwise to assume that a single model will suffice. A pure temperament diathesis model of non-melancholic depression is unlikely to be sufficient and would benefit from testing of additional personality constructs.