Psychological Problems 16 - Depression - Biological theory

Name of biological theory

Social rank theory

What the social rank theory states

If a person loses something, depression is a natural reaction which allows us to come to terms with loss and consequences of this. Therefore, it prevents us from trying to achieve a higher status and try to stop competing.

Criticism of Social rank theory

Reductionist as it suggests everyone has the same reaction. It infers it is an instinctive reaction to a situation where you have been a loser. Therefore, it ignores individual differences such as losing a job opportunity but working hard to get that role

Criticism of Social rank theory

Ignores instances of depression that are caused by life events other than social rank conflicts such as the stress of being a carer. Being a carer for a sick relative can result in depression as coping with symptoms which get worse is hard to manage especially if there’s little support. This theory doesn’t explain that

Criticism of Social rank theory

Suggests depression is limited to losers and people of low social rank. Although statistics show that depression is more common in people who’re poorer and therefore more likely to be of lower social rank, there’s still a significant proportion of people of higher social rank who go through depression such as celebs.