Utilizing a diathesis-anxiety model to understand comorbid anxiety and depression in a clinical adult population.
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It is well documented that anxiety and depression often co-occur, and that with comorbidity comes an increase in personal and societal costs. However, it is not entirely clear as to the mechanism of their comorbid relationship. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether a diathesis-anxiety model could be a possible explanation for frequently occurring comorbid anxiety and depression. The diathesis-anxiety model proposes that cognitive vulnerabilities interact with anxiety symptoms resulting in depressive symptoms. The cognitive variables of sociotropy, autonomy, rumination and dysfunctional attitudes were examined within a clinical adult population. On completion of regression modelling of the diathesis-anxiety model, as well as a reverse diathesis-anxiety model to test for an alternative temporal relationship of anxiety and depression, it was clear that no interaction effects were found for the selective cognitive variables. Whilst the current study did not support the diathesis anxiety model, past research has shown some significant results. The implications and future directions for research are discussed.