‘Electro-convulsive therapy (ECT) is not a cure for depression.' To what extent do you agree with this statement? Use examples of research you have studied to support your answer.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2018). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [12] Marks: use generic levels of response in table C.
2. Syllabus: treatment and management of depression: electro-convulsive therapy.
3. Most likely (any other appropriate responses should be credited):
4. For:
5. ∞ ECT has a higher success rate for severe depression than any other form of treatment.
6. ∞ people who cannot take antidepressants due to problems of health or lack of response and pregnant women who suffer from depression or mania.
7. ∞ A patient who is very intent on suicide, and who would not wait three weeks for an antidepressant to work, would be a good candidate for ECT because it works more rapidly. Suicide attempts are relatively rare after ECT.
8. Against:
9. ∞ 20 to 50% of the people who respond well to a course of ECT relapse within 6 months, a maintenance treatment of antidepressants, lithium or ECT at monthly or six week intervals is given.
10. ∞ The scientific evidence regarding the efficacy of the treatment has been firmly established in the professional literature.
11. ∞ Short-term memory loss is often reported. Many patients perceive the treatment as terrifying and shameful.