Suppose that low self-esteem is a diathesis for developing depression later in life. This means that
A) people who currently are depressed will have low self-esteem.
B) low self-esteem is a proximal trigger for depression.
C) people with low self-esteem have a predisposition for developing depression.
D) the psychological processes associated with low self-esteem are the trigger for depression.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The term "diathesis" suggests a predisposition or vulnerability to developing a particular condition. Therefore, option C is the correct choice as it indicates that a person with low self-esteem has a preexisting vulnerability for developing depression later in life. Option A is incorrect because it assumes that depression is already present, while option B and D are incorrect because they suggest that low self-esteem is the direct cause of depression rather than a predisposition.

Suppose That Low Self-Esteem Is a Diathesis for Developing Depression