Cognitive Behavior Theory (CBT)

Cognitive Behavior Theory  (or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) is a psychological approach that

focuses on how a person’s thoughts (cognitions)  influence their feelings and behaviors.

It is based on the idea that “what we think affects how we feel and how we act.”

Principles of CBT

1. Thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected

CBT explains that:

·         Negative thoughts create negative emotions

·         Negative emotions lead to unhelpful behaviors

·         By changing thoughts, we can change our feelings and actions

This is known as the Cognitive Triad

 2. Maladaptive or distorted thinking causes psychological problems.

People often develop faulty patterns of thinking called cognitive distortions such as:

·         Overgeneralization

·         Catastrophizing

·         All-or-nothing thinking

·         Personalization

·         Mind reading

3. Changing thinking leads to emotional and behavioral change.

CBT helps individuals:

·         Identify negative thoughts

·         Challenge or question them

·         Replace them with rational, realistic thoughts

Techniques Used in CBT

1. Cognitive Restructuring

·         Identifying negative automatic thoughts

·         Challenging their accuracy

·         Replacing with realistic thoughts

2. Behavioral Activation

·         Encouraging positive activities

·         Reducing avoidance behavior

·         Used especially in depression

 

 

 

3. Exposure Therapy

·         Gradually exposing individuals to feared objects or situations

·         Helps reduce anxiety or phobias

4. Thought Records

Writing down situations, thoughts, feelings, and alternative thoughts

5. Problem-Solving Training

6. Relaxation Techniques

·         Deep breathing

·         Progressive muscle relaxation

·         Mindfulness

Applications of CBT

CBT is widely used and effective for many conditions:

·         Depression

·         Anxiety disorders

·         OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)

·         Phobias

·         PTSD

·         Eating disorders

·         Addiction

·         Anger management

·         Stress management

  Limitations of CBT

·         Requires active participation

·         May not address deeper emotional issues or past trauma

·         Not effective for people with severe cognitive impairments

·         Some patients may struggle with homework tasks