['Behavioral activation system (BAS) deficits are hypothesized to increase risk for depression. This study tested the hypothesis that BAS deficits, measured with both self-report and electrophysiological methods, would predict the six-month course of depression.', "67 participants with major depressive disorder (MDD) with or without pre-existing dysthymia were assessed at baseline with Carver and White's [Carver, C.S., White, T.L., 1994. Behavioral inhibition, behavioral activation, and affective responses to impending reward and punishment: the BIS/BAS scales. J. Pers. Soc. Psychol. 67, 319-333.] BIS/BAS scales and resting EEG. The week-by-week course of their depressive symptoms was assessed six months later with the Longitudinal Interval Follow-up Evaluation (LIFE).", 'Baseline self-reported BAS sensitivity predicted depression diagnosis (MDD or dysthymia) at follow-up, number of MDD symptoms at follow-up, average weekly level of depression, and time to recovery. These effects persisted after controlling for baseline clinical variables associated with a worse course. Baseline resting EEG alpha asymmetry did not significantly predict the course of depression.'] Do behavioral activation system deficits predict the six-month course of depression?