Modern diagnostic concepts of the affective disorders.
OBJECTIVE
To review critically alternative models of depression.


METHODS
Contrasting historical models are noted and some results of a study overviewing a temperament-based model for the non-melancholic disorders are presented.


RESULTS
Limitations to all models are considered.


CONCLUSIONS
As depression can present as a mood state, a syndrome, a disorder and as a disease, it is unwise to assume that a single model will suffice. A pure temperament diathesis model of non-melancholic depression is unlikely to be sufficient and would benefit from testing of additional personality constructs.
Parker
G
G
School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sidney, Australia.
D000339:Affect; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D008960:Models, Psychological; D019964:Mood Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000266:history*; D010551:Personality; D013577:Syndrome