Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

What was Lewinsohn's original focus in the treatment of depression?

1. Attribution re-training

2. Improving problem-solving skills

3. Increasing activity levels

4. Self-instructional training

The correct answer is: Increasing activity levels

Lewinsohn's original focus in the treatment of depression was on increasing activity levels. He developed the Behavioral Activation theory, which emphasized that depression often results from a lack of positive reinforcement and engagement in pleasurable activities. By encouraging individuals to initiate more activities, the idea was to break the cycle of avoidance and negative reinforcement that often characterizes depression. This approach highlighted the importance of lightening the individual’s emotional state through increased engagement with the environment and social activities, ultimately aiming to reduce depressive symptoms. The other concepts, while relevant in psychological treatment contexts, do not align with Lewinsohn's core premise. For example, attribution re-training focuses on how individuals explain events and their impact on self-esteem and motivation, while improving problem-solving skills is more aligned with cognitive-behavioral approaches. Self-instructional training centers around teaching individuals self-guidance strategies, which supports behavioral changes but was not the original focus of Lewinsohn's work in treating depression.