Positive and negative aspects of sociotropy and autonomy

The predictions of cognitive theory of depression with regard to personality modes have not been consistently supported. One explanation is that theoretical attention has been unduly centered on maladaptive aspects of personality. The content validity of the Sociotropy-Autonomy Scale (SAS) was explored with regard to the external correlates of positively and negatively self-evaluative items. One hundred twenty-four undergraduates completed the SAS and several criterion measures. Positively and negatively toned SAS items exhibited different external correlates, with only negatively toned items being associated with symptom and negative cognition measures. Moreover, the pattern of mood correlates reported by Clark and Beck (1991) for three subscales of a revised SAS Autonomy scale corresponded to the valence of each subscale's items, as determined by content analysis. Whereas sociotropy and autonomy are conceptually defined in terms of placing a high value on certain goals or experiences, the SAS may be overbalanced by expressions of self-criticism or insecurity about these values.