Problem-solving self-appraisal, depression, and Attributional Style: Are they related?

Abstract

Whereas previous research linking problem solving and depression has focused on problem-solving skills related to laboratory tasks, the relationship between higher-order cognitive variables such as an appraisal of one's general problem-solving skills and depression has not been addressed. Likewise, while attributions of one's behavior have been linked to depression, it is unclear if attributions are related to problem-solving appraisal. The present study examined both of these research problems. Self-appraised effective or ineffective problem-solvers completed the following: Beck Depression Inventory, Feelings and Concerns Survey, Attributional Style Questionnaire, and Mooney Problem Checklist. Results indicated that (a) assessment of one's problem-solving skills are related to the number of personal problems reported, and to ratings of short- and long-term depression; (b) assessment of one's problem-solving skills do not seem to be linearly related to attributional style; and (c) attributional style is not linearly related to depression. Results are discussed in terms of real-life problem-solving processes and a more complex model of depression.