Common Cause Versus Dynamic Mutualism: An Empirical Comparison of Two Theories of Psychopathology in Two Large Longitudinal Cohorts

Mental disorders are among the leading causes of global disease burden. To respond effectively, a strong understanding structure psychopathology is critical. We empirically compared two competing frameworks, dynamic-mutualism theory and common-cause theory, that vie to explain development psychopathology. formalized these theories in statistical models applied them change general factor (p factor) from early late adolescence ( N = 1,482) major depression middle adulthood old age 6,443). Change p was better explained by mutualism according model-fit indices. However, core prediction not supported (i.e., predominantly positive causal interactions distinct domains). The evidence for more ambiguous. Our results support multicausal approach showcase value translating into testable developmental processes clinical sciences.