OBJECTIVES:

To investigate the combined roles of level and perceived stability of self-esteem in prospectively predicting depression.

DESIGN:

Symptoms of depression and anxiety were measured both before and after psychoeducational treatment for depression; level and perceived stability of self-esteem were measured before treatment.

METHOD:

Participants were 26 adults (16 female), age range 21-75 years.

RESULTS:

More stable self-esteem was associated with greater depressive symptomatology at treatment completion, particularly among participants who began treatment with the lowest self-esteem. Effects were specific to symptoms of depression in contrast with anxiety.

CONCLUSION:

These results suggest that a stable, well-consolidated negative self-concept is associated with prolonged depression and a poor response to psychosocial interventions.