Abstract: Several cognitive theories of depression vulnerability have been proposed, but development of these cognitive factors has not caught much attention. This paper reviews the research investigating development of cognitive vulnerability to depression (CVD) among children and adolescents. First, it is suggested that it is necessary to understand when CVD emerges and becomes relatively stable in childhood, especially early childhood. Second, development of three cognitive factors, including attributional styles, dysfunctional attitudes and rumination response style, were reviewed to support continuity of CVD. New insights and implications for assessment and etiology of CVD are discussed.

Key words: attributional style, dysfunctional attitude, rumination, children, cognitive vulnerability