Effect of priming with attachment security on positive affect among individuals with depression

We examined the effect of priming with attachment security on positive affect among 54 dependent individuals with depression and 51 self-critical individuals with depression. Participants received attachment security priming after they had completed the Depressive Experiences Questionnaire and the Self-Rating Depression Scale. Results showed that dependent individuals experienced greater positive affect after priming, whereas there was no significant change in positive affect among self-critical individuals. These findings indicate that the 2 types of depression have distinct development and change paths as regards positive affect, as well as different impact factors. Future researchers could further explore the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral differences between individuals with the 2 types of depression, to help improve clinical interventions.