An Essay on the Beckian Cognitive Model - William Lu

The original Beckian Cognitive Model has received much acclaim for its association with an efficacious therapeutic intervention in the treatment of depression and other mental disorders. However, it has also received a significant amount of criticism over the years. Teasdale, a prominent name in the cognitive sciences is one of the model’s main critics. He argues that weaknesses are found inherent in a model based on “clinical” theory including the inability to correct for errors, the use of imprecise and unscientific terminology, and the creation of post hoc rationalizations. Evidence has also shown that vulnerability to depression may not come from underlying dysfunctional assumptions and attitudes as Beck had once thought. Teasdale believes that changes in the model are necessary for its survival in a rapidly developing field of cognitive science. Beck addresses some of these important issues inherent in his model of linear schematic processing by incorporating the concept of modes and charges in a later revision. This paper aims to briefly lay out the original and latter Beckian Cognitive Model, address a few of the strengths and weaknesses of the former, describe how the latter remediate some of these weaknesses, and elucidate some empirical support for the revamped cognitive model by drawing from the works of Lazarus, LeDoux, Folkins, Apsche and Ward.