This course explores the etiology, assessment and treatment of clinical depression. An emphasis will be placed both on understanding the scientific literature and on close familiarity with assessment issues. Students will read from theoretical, empirical, and autobiographical writings on depression, and will explore the strengths and weaknesses of different assessment strategies in simulated clinical interviews. Topics include subtypes of depression; how depression overlaps with normal mood; leading cognitive, biological, evolutionary and integrative theories; and why certain treatments are effective. Epidemiological issues, such as the role of gender and culture in the syndrome, will also be considered. Requirements: class participation, a 5- to 7-page research critique, a midterm exam, and a written research proposal and/or final research report. Prerequisites: Psychology 252. Priority given to psychology majors. Enrollment limited to 25. Empirical Project

Hour: A. SOLOMON