Which of the following statements is true regarding the role of psychological factors in depression?

• A. Depression is solely caused by genetic and biological factors, with no psychological involvement.
• B. Only environmental stressors, not psychological factors, play a role in depression.
• C. Psychological factors have no influence on the onset or course of depression.
• D. Negative thinking patterns and maladaptive beliefs can contribute to the development and maintenance of depression.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that depression is a complex mental health disorder influenced by multiple factors, including biological, psychological, and environmental components.
2. Recognize that psychological factors refer to internal processes such as thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that can affect mental health.
3. Identify that negative thinking patterns and maladaptive beliefs are examples of psychological factors that can contribute to both the onset and maintenance of depression.
4. Consider how these negative cognitive patterns can lead to feelings of hopelessness and low self-esteem, which are common in depression.
5. Conclude that psychological factors play a significant role in depression, alongside genetic, biological, and environmental influences, making the statement about negative thinking patterns being contributory the true one.