ce and self-denigration.
Regarding this second dimension of symptoms, there can also be difficulty concentration and making decisions. In general then, this dimension consists of negative attitudes, perceptions, and opinions of self, the outside world, and the future.
The third dimension of depression consists of behavioral symptoms. Sue, Sue and Sue (1994) report that these commonly include sloppy or dirty appearance. For example, the hair may be uncombed and unwashed as well as the body.
Also, with respect to behavioral symptoms, there is often a dull, masklike facial expression. Speech and bodily movement are slow. Expressive gestures and spontaneous responses are greatly reduced. There is usually social withdrawal and lowered work productivity. In some few cases, these symptoms can be a bit reversed so that the behavior is that of an agitated state and symptoms are those of restlessness.
Finally, there are a number of somatic or physiological symptoms that occur among the clinically depressed. According to Sue, Sue, and Sue (1994), these physiobiological symptoms include a loss of appetite and weight or an excessive weight gain. There can be constipation, sleep disturbances and an aversion to sexual activity. For women, there can also be a disruption of the normal menstrual cycle.
Some people are more likely to become depressed than others. In particular, women, children, and the elderly experience depression at rates higher than average. The next section of this report examines these high risk groups.
Women. Women are far more prone to depression than men. According to Strickland (1992), regardless of region of the world, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, women remain about twice as likely as men to suffer from depression. In this regard, the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-IV, 1994) states that 18 to 23 percent of females and 8 to 11 percent of males will, at some point in their li...