Interpretation of ambiguity in depression

Abstract

Distorted interpretations of ambiguous information have been theorized to confer risk to experiencing depression. This article discusses recent research characterizing biased and inflexible interpretation processes to resolve ambiguous situations in depression, its underlying cognitive mechanisms, and potential pathways to depression. Future research directions are outlined to consolidate the understanding of the nature, causes, and effects of interpretation processes in depression to advance psychological treatments for this burdensome mental health condition.

Keywords: Depression; Interpretation bias; Interpretation inflexibility.