Addressing Depression Disparities:

This chapter provides a review of the literature on the development, course, and outcomes of depression through the lens of intersectionality theory and praxis. First, it provides an overview of intersectionality theory and how it has been misapplied and misunderstood in psychology and clinical practice. The chapter then outlines a framework that centers intersectionality within systems of power, privilege, and oppression and how this applies to clinical practice. This includes an overview of related theories, such as minority stress theory and multiple jeopardy theory, and research demonstrating the additional challenges related to interlocking systems of oppression and their consequent impacts on psychological well-being and coping. Next, the chapter provides an intersectional framework for understanding the course of depression and the role of ongoing systemic oppression in the maintenance of depressive symptomatology, outcomes, risk, and protective factors for depression. Finally, the chapter offers suggestions for incorporating teachings into clinical practice.