Behavioral activation system deficits predict the six-month course of depression.
BACKGROUND: Behavioral activation system ( BAS) deficits are hypothesized to increase risk for depression. This study tested the hypothesis that BAS deficits, measured with both self-report and electrophysiological methods, would predict the six-month course of depression. METHODS: 67 participants with major depressive disorder ( MDD) with or without pre-existing dysthymia were assessed at baseline with Carver and White's [Carver, C.S., White, T.L., 1994. Behavioral inhibition, behavioral activation, and affective responses to impending reward and punishment: the BIS/ BAS scales. J. Pers. Soc. Psychol. 67, 319-333.] BIS/ BAS scales and resting EEG. The week-by-week course of their depressive symptoms was assessed six months later with the Longitudinal Interval Follow-up Evaluation (LIFE). RESULTS: Baseline self-reported BAS sensitivity predicted depression diagnosis ( MDD or dysthymia) at follow-up, number of MDD symptoms at follow-up, average weekly level of depression, and time to recovery. These effects persisted after controlling for baseline clinical variables associated with a worse course. Baseline resting EEG alpha asymmetry did not significantly predict the course of depression. LIMITATIONS: Although BAS sensitivity predicted the subsequent course of depression, we cannot determine whether it played a causal role in maintaining depression. CONCLUSIONS: Lower self-reported BAS sensitivity predicts a worse course of depression but EEG asymmetries do not.[1]References
- Behavioral activation system deficits predict the six-month course of depression. McFarland, B.R., Shankman, S.A., Tenke, C.E., Bruder, G.E., Klein, D.N. Journal of affective disorders. (2006) [Pubmed]
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