Comparison of Cognitive and Behavioral Self-Control Treatments of Depression

Abstract

A self-control treatment of depression was evaluated against a cognitive treatment of depression. 30 depressed female volunteer subjects were randomly assigned to one of two 6-wk. group treatment conditions. The self-control treatment focused on self-monitoring, self-evaluation and self-reinforcement. The cognitive treatment emphasized identifying and altering irrational thoughts. The self-control treatment was as effective as the cognitive treatment in producing significant reductions in depression. Results remained stable at a 6-wk. follow-up. Discussion focused on the efficacy of the self-control model and implications for research.