| resumeang: Based on an exploratory study of 23 couples therapists, this article reports on the central assessment areas and treatment approaches applied with couples when one partner's major depression is the presenting problem. Of the 100 questionnaires distributed, 34 were returned; 23 met the criteria of having treated at least 5 couples coping with major depression. The most common assessment areas include suicidal ideation of the depressed partner and the impact of depression on the underlying emotional context of the couple. Behavioral marital therapy was the approach used most often, with emotionally focused therapy and the psychodynamic approach used in moderation, and the integrative approach used least. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2000 APA, all rights reserved). |
