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Mental representation of attachment relationships in an individual diagnosed with major depressive disorder

The objective of this work was to evaluate the mental representation of attachment relationships in an individual diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder. Previous studies suggested a connection between the attachment relationships established in the familial group and pathological functioning models. A case study was performed with a female patient presenting the disorder, who was attended at Ambulatório de Ansiedade e Depressão of Hospital Universitário Betina Ferro de Souza. Eight domiciliary interviews were carried out. The following instruments were used: a) Interview Script; b) Drawing of the Family; c) Family Drawing Checklist of Signs; e d) Family Drawing Global Rating Scales. The results suggested the establishment of anxious and hesitating attachment relationships, revealing a very high global pathology. We stress, therefore, the importance of a familial environment which would offer attention and care to its members, providing safety and favoring biopsychosocial health.

Mental Representation; Attachment Relationships; Family, Depression


Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psicologia, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas Núcleo de Editoração SBI - Campus II, Av. John Boyd Dunlop, s/n. Prédio de Odontologia, 13060-900 Campinas - São Paulo Brasil, Tel./Fax: +55 19 3343-7223 - Campinas - SP - Brazil
E-mail: psychologicalstudies@puc-campinas.edu.br