THE SEARCH FOR MODE-SPECIFIC EFFECTS OF COGNITIVE AND OTHER THERAPIES- A METHODOLOGICAL SUGGESTION

The hypothesis that the unique mechanism of action of cognitive therap y (CT) for depression involves change in underlying cognitions (schema ) has not been supported by empirical studies; instead, many therapies seem to produce cognitive change. Likewise, evidence fails to support the hypothesis, drawn from the cognitive theory, that change in under lying cognitions protects patients from relapse. We argue that methodo logical problems may explain these empirical disconfirmations of the c ognitive theory. In particular, the failure to activate latent underly ing cognitions before assessing them prevents investigators from adequ ately testing mode-specific hypotheses about the mechanism of action o f CT. A similar difficulty may plague tests of mode-specific hypothese s about the mechanisms of action of other therapies.