According to Aaron Beck, what plays a crucial role in causing depression?

Aaron Beck, a prominent figure in cognitive therapy, posits that negative thinking and beliefs significantly contribute to the development and persistence of depression. His cognitive theory of depression suggests that individuals with depression often hold pessimistic views about themselves, their experiences, and their future. This pattern of negative cognition leads to a distorted perception of reality, reinforcing feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.

Beck identified cognitive distortions that are commonly present in depressed individuals, such as all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and personalization. These cognitive errors exacerbate negative feelings and perpetuate depressive symptoms. Beck's approach emphasizes restructuring these negative thought patterns in therapy to alleviate depressive symptoms and promote a more balanced perspective.

By focusing on the central role of negative thinking and beliefs, Beck highlights the importance of cognitive processes in understanding and treating depression, which is why this answer is viewed as the most accurate in the context of his work and theories.