Towards an Integration of Interpersonal Risk Models of Depression and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy: A Commentary on What Constitutes Interpersonal Therapy

Abstract

The article by Dobson, Quigley, and Dozois on interpersonal model provides a very useful guide on how to extend cognitive behavioural models of depression to incorporate interpersonal vulnerabilities that influence how depressed people behave towards others. The point is made that interpersonal processes are very likely to influence the onset and course of depression. In this commentary, I extend this analysis further examining the evidence on how interactions within close relationships, particularly couple relationships, interact with individuals' depression. Evidence is also cited on the effectiveness of couple‐based therapy in treating depression.

Key words:

• cognitive behaviour therapy
• couple therapy
• depression
• interpersonal
• treatment