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Published Online: 2009, pp. 1–102

Predictive Value of Self-Reported and Observer-Rated Defense Style in Depression Treatment

Henricus L. Van, M.D., Ph.D. [email protected], Jack Dekker, Ph.D., Jaap Peen, M.A., Robert E. Abraham, Ph.D., and Robert Schoevers, M.D., Ph.D.Authors Info & Affiliations

Publication: American Journal of Psychotherapy

Volume 63, Number 1

https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.psychotherapy.2009.63.1.25

Abstract

This study explored the predictive value of observer-rated and self-reported defensive functioning on the outcome of psychotherapy for the treatment of depression. Defense styles were measured according to the Developmental Profile (DP) and the Defense Style Questionnaire (DSQ) in 81 moderately severely depressed patients. All patients were treated with Short-term Psychodynamic Supportive Psychotherapy (SPSP).

At baseline, women appeared to have a more mature level of overall defensive functioning. A lower level of defensive function was found in patients with recurrent depressions. We also found a rather modest relationship between self-reported and observer-rated defense.

Remitted patients had a more mature overall defensive functioning on the DP and the DSQ. In particular, patients with a symbiotic defense style (giving up, apathetic withdrawal) were at risk for poor outcome.

This exploratory study provides further evidence of the relevance of defense styles for depression. It suggests a differential predictive value of separate defense levels, which may help to tailor psychotherapeutic strategies.

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Go to American Journal of Psychotherapy

American Journal of Psychotherapy

Volume 63 • Number 1 • 2009, pp. 1–102

Pages: 25 - 39

PubMed: 19425332

History

Published in print: 2009, pp. 1–102

Published online: 30 April 2018

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Authors

Affiliations

Henricus L. Van, M.D., Ph.D. [email protected]

Depression Research Group of JellinekMentrum Mental Health Care Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

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Jack Dekker, Ph.D.

Depression Research Group of JellinekMentrum Mental Health Care Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Professor of Clinical Psychology, Free University Amsterdam., The Netherlands.

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Jaap Peen, M.A.

Depression Research Group of JellinekMentrum Mental Health Care Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

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Robert E. Abraham, Ph.D.

Depression Research Group of JellinekMentrum Mental Health Care Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry, University of Leiden, The Netherlands.

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Robert Schoevers, M.D., Ph.D.

Depression Research Group of JellinekMentrum Mental Health Care Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

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Notes

Mailing address: Henricus L Van, M.D., Ph.D., JellinekMentrum Mental Health Care, PO Box 75848, 1070 AV Amsterdam, The Netherlands. e-mail: [email protected]

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