A conceptual integration of interpersonal theory and cognitive-behavioral models of depression: Delineating the pathway from partner-schemas to relationship distress and depression.
Abstract
Difficulties in romantic relationships are a prominent part of the disorder for many individuals with depression. Researchers have called for an integration of interpersonal and cognitive-behavioral theories to better understand the role of relational difficulties in depression. In this article, a novel theoretical framework (the dyadic partner-schema model) is presented. This model illustrates a potential pathway from underlying “partnerschema” structures to romantic relationship distress and depressive affect. This framework integrates cognitivebehavioral mechanisms in depression with research on dyadic processes in romantic partners. A brief clinical case example is presented to illustrate the utility of the dyadic partner-schema model in conceptualizing the treatment of depression. The implications of the model are discussed, and areas for future research are explored.