The prevalence of depression in contemporary society has prompted disturbing questions regarding the quality of life. Despite staggering statistics, however, basic issues regarding the etiology and treatment of depressive disorders remain largely unresolved. In recent years a heightened emphasis has been placed on the impact of stressful life events on the onset and maintenance of depressive symptomatology. This approach supplements more traditional concern with real or symbolic losses in depressed individuals. The finding of higher rates of depression among women has also generated increasing interest.