Does depression require an evolutionary explanation?
Ashelford, Sarah L.
Ashelford, Sarah L.
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2012
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Abstract
In this paper I examine how Darwinian thought has been applied to understanding the evolutionary origins of depression. The application of evolutionary theory has produced a significant number of adaptive hypotheses for the origins of depression. Some of the main models are discussed. The ‘separation-distress’ emotional system described Watt and Panksepp (Neuropsychoanalysis 11:7–51, 2009), provides a convincing evolutionary-conserved neurochemical and emotional system which may form the basis of a depressive response in humans. By reflecting on these models, I discuss whether depression in humans can be considered to be an adaptation in evolutionary terms, or whether it is a maladaptive response to adverse life events.
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Ashelford SL (2012) Does depression require an evolutionary explanation? In: In Brinkworth MH and Weinert F (Eds) Evolution 2.0: Implications of Darwinism in Philosophy and the Social and Natural Sciences. London: Springer Heidelberg.
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