What notion has Aaron Beck proposed regarding depression?

Aaron Beck's proposal regarding depression centers on the idea that negative thoughts can lead to depressive feelings and behaviors. This perspective is fundamental to cognitive therapy, which Beck developed. He posited that individuals with depression often engage in cognitive distortions—negative patterns of thinking that skew their perception of reality and lead them to feel hopeless or worthless. This cognitive triad, characterized by negative views of oneself, the world, and the future, is crucial in understanding how thoughts can directly influence emotional states and behaviors. Consequently, modifying these negative thought patterns can significantly alleviate depressive symptoms, underscoring the importance of cognitive processes in mental health.