Previous research has found dysfunctional attitudes to be elevated in persons with elevated depressed mood, and a facet of dysfunctional attitudes referred to as Approval by Others has been a significant predictor of severity of depressed mood. The present study evaluated relations between Approval by Others and depression and examined the role of dysfunctional evaluative cognitions over life problems and hassles as a mediator of this relationship among 100 undergraduates. Approval By Others facet was found to be a significant predictor of severity of depressed mood. However, further analysis provided strong evidence that the effect of this dysfunctional attitudes facet is mediated by evaluative cognitions over life problems and hassles. Results are discussed in the context of previous research and cognitive behavioural therapy practice.