Suppose that a therapist notices several clients with anxiety disorders also demonstrate symptoms consistent with major depressive disorder.Why should she be cautious in making the assumption that experiencing an anxiety disorder causes one to experience major depressive disorder?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The therapist needs to be cautious because the relationship between anxiety disorders and major depressive disorder may not be a direct causal one. It could be the result of a third variable that affects both disorders, such as a lack of personal control or genetic predisposition, instead of anxiety disorder causing major depressive disorder. Therefore, making assumptions or drawing conclusions based on this relationship could be inaccurate and potentially harmful to clients.

Suppose That a Therapist Notices Several Clients with Anxiety Disorders