Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology, Eighth Edition

Interpersonal Therapy for Depression

Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), developed by Gerald Klerman and Myrna Weissman, emphasizes four interpersonal problem areas: interpersonal loss, interpersonal role dispute, interpersonal role transition, and interpersonal deficits. IPT is usually composed of 16 sessions broken up into phases focusing on one or more of these four identified areas. IPT-oriented therapists tend to look closely at relationships and relationship dynamics to assist in improving mood. As noted in Chapter 6, symptoms almost totally disappear in approximately 50 to 60 percent of clients who receive IPT treatment for depression by the end of therapy.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1414693/

After reading “Interpersonal Psychotherapy: Principles and Applications,” consider the questions below. Then submit your responses.

Question 1

Which of the following is true about IPT?

It focuses on the past.

It is extensive and lengthy.

It leaves the control of mood and functioning to the clinician.

It is a present-focused treatment.

Question 2

Which of the following statements best relates to the principles of IPT?

Life situations have little effect on mood.

Depression is the result of a personal defect or flaw.

Depression does not excuse the individual from self-blame.

Life situations are interrelated with mood.

Question 3

IPT usually is composed of how many sessions of treatment?

Question 4

What is one difference between cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and IPT?

Answers will vary. One possibility: One main difference is that CBT focuses on automatic thoughts and cognitive distortions, while IPT focuses on interpersonal relationships and life experiences directly related to mood.

Question 5

IPT places the patient in the “sick person role” with regard to their depressive symptoms. What advantage does this provide?

Answers will vary. One possibility: By identifying as a sick person, the patient can recognize that his or her symptoms are impeding functioning, which in turn reduces self-blame, and permits the patient to focus on present concerns.

Note: Web links in this activity lead you to external sites. Some URLs change frequently and may appear as broken links. If you encounter a broken link, try searching for the article or organization in your Web browser or click here to see if a replacement link is provided. To report a broken link, contact technical support through the help option in LaunchPad.