ABSTRACT
Depression is considered one of the most burdensome and disabling diseases in the world (Murray & Lopez, 1996). Approximately 25% of individuals will experience a clinically signi cant episode of depression in their lifetime, and many more will have subthreshold levels of symptoms. Social and occupational impairment as well as other psychopathology (e.g., substance use disorders, anxiety disorders) and suicidality often accompany mood disorders. Depression tends to recur, with over 75% of depressed individuals having more than one episode over the life course (Keller & Boland, 1998). Symptoms often begin during childhood or, more frequently, in adolescence (Kandel & Davies, 1986; Pine, Cohen, Gurley, Brook, & Ma, 1998). Early identi cation of the processes that underlie the development of depression should facilitate prevention and treatment.
