This study examined the factorial validity of the cognitive triad (view of
self, world, and future) hypothesized by A. T. Beck (1987) to be a key depr
ession-related variable. A nonclinical sample (N = 641) of university under
graduates completed the Cognitive Triad Inventory (CTI; Beckham, Leber, Wat
kins, Boyer, & Cook, 1986). Although an initial confirmatory factor analysi
s failed to support a three-factor model for the cn drawn from Beck's parad
igm, a principal components analysis yielded a single factor which was labe
led, "Self-Relevant Negative Attitude." Additional analyses confirmed the v
iability of the one-factor solution and showed that the cn was still a reli
able scale with 12 as opposed to the original 30 items. Theoretical and pra
ctical implications are discussed.