Three models of the relation of negative cognitive style to depression are outlined: (1) a symptom model, where negative cognitions are a symptom of depression, (2) a vulnerability model, where a negative life‐event in combination with cognitive vulnerability leads to depression and (3) an alternative aetiologies model, where depression can be precipitated either by stressful life‐events or by a negative cognitive style. Differential predictions from the three models were examined in data from a general population survey of 193 mothers where a reliable case identification procedure and life‐events interview were used together with measures of attributional style and self‐esteem. Results were mostly consistent with the alternative aetiologies model, but also gave some support for the symptom model. In some cases, negative cognitive style may act to increase the risk of depression onset in the absence of life‐eve