Exploring the Factor Structure of Implicit and Explicit Cognitions Associated With Depression

Author(s)
Phillips, Wendy J
Hine, Donald W
Publication Date
2013
Abstract
Dual-process models of cognitive vulnerability to depression propose that implicit (automatic) and explicit (effortful) processes are involved in depression. The current study investigated the underlying structure of four implicit and four explicit cognitive biases associated with depression in an undergraduate sample (N = 355). An exploratory principal-axis factor analysis of implicit and explicit measures of self-esteem, dysfunctional beliefs, and memory for positive and negative stimuli produced a three-factor solution that was inconsistent with the dual process (two factor) account. Subsequent confirmatory factor analyses of biases exhibited by a hold-out sample also failed to support the hypothesized dual-process model and supported a three-factor solution. Overall, the results indicate that the latent structure of measures investigated in this study is not characterized by a clear differentiation between implicit and explicit cognition and that alternative models and measurement strategies should be investigated.
Citation
Assessment, 20(4), p. 474-483
ISSN
1552-3489
1073-1911
Link
Publisher
Sage Publications, Inc
Title
Exploring the Factor Structure of Implicit and Explicit Cognitions Associated With Depression
Type of document
Journal Article
Entity Type
Publication

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