Partnership problems as causes of endogenous a id neurotic depressions

Abstract

Content analysis of biographic interviews with endogenous and neurotic depressives shows that problems in a partnership carry particular weight as triggers of depression. In this respect, however, separations and the death of a partner play a comparatively less important role. Neurotic depressives become more depressed because of partnership-related events than endogenous depressives. Also in qualitative respects the causes for depression differ between the 2 groups; in endogenous depressives a threat of real loss often triggers depression, whereas neurotic depressives fall ill more frequently as a result of disappointments and injuries caused by the partner. Accompanying differeces in the course of the partnership, the choice of partner and the premorbid personality are discussed.