According to the National Institute of Mental Health (2016) thoroughly defines and explains depression as a mood disorder. Being both common and serious depression is attached to symptoms affecting how one feels, thinks, performs tasks, sleeps, and even eats (National Institute of Mental Health, 2016). Symptoms related directly to depression need to be present for two weeks or more in order for there to be an overall diagnosis of depression (National Institute of Mental Health, 2016). While many people view depression as a single disorder greatly associated with sadness, but it is important to note that there are different forms of depression that may occur and be associated with children and adolescents. The possible different forms of depression …show more content…
First and foremost, it is important to understand Beck’s cognitive model of depression before diving into its interpretations. Simply put, Beck’s cognitive model of depression is a triad including negative views about oneself, the world, and the future (Disner et al., 2011). It starts with a negative thought about oneself i.e. “I am fat and unattractive”, then a negative thought about the world’s perception i.e. “Everyone thinks I am fat and unattractive”, and finally a negative thought about the future i.e. “I will always be fat and unattractive” (Disner et al., 2011). This theory compares to Bandura’s in the sense that it starts with negative thoughts about oneself which leads to more negative thoughts. The difference between the two theories is that Bandura’s theory also focuses on the additional negative behaviors and environments that are tied to depression while Beck’s theory revolves around the negative thought process in individuals with depression. However, the contrasting characteristics between the theories actually help with the prevalence and diagnosis of the lack of education and child and adolescent support in the Miami Dade county high schools. Beck’s theory helps pinpoint the fact that negative thoughts often lead to depression while Bandura’s theory helps identify that the school environment could be a potential trigger for adolescent depression. This is why teachers, principals, counselors, and parents need to be educated on the DSM-V definition and symptoms of child and adolescent depression and I propose an after school educational intervention for