Diagnosis of depressive manifestations in adolescents within the cognitive-behavioral approach: a case study analysis

http://dx.doi.org/10.17072/2949‐5601-2026-2-88-95

Abstract

Objective. To demonstrate, through a case analysis, the application of the cognitive-behavioral approach to diagnosing depressive manifestations in an adolescent with a polyaccentuated profile and chronic psychotraumatization.

Methods. A clinical case of a 16-year-old female is presented. The diagnostic assessment included clinical interview, observation, and standardized instruments: Leonhard–Schmiesek accentuation method, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), DASS-21, Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (SSI), and SAD PERSONS Scale.

Results. A polyaccentuated profile (exaltation, excitability, hyperthymia, dysthymia, anxiety), an actualized cognitive triad, marked depressive-anxiety symptomatology (BDI 24, DASS-21: depression 11, anxiety 14), and high suicide risk (SSI 23, SAD PERSONS 7) were identified. The interplay of personality accentuations, cognitive distortions, and emotional regulation deficit in conditions of emotional deprivation is demonstrated.

Conclusions. Psychological assessment within the cognitive-behavioral framework allows for conceptualization of mechanisms underlying depressive reaction through case analysis and indicates the need for medical-psychological support of at-risk adolescents. The findings illustrate a variant of diagnostic algorithm for professionals in educational and social institutions.