which principle underlies cognitive therapy?

which principle underlies cognitive therapy?

Answer:

It is needed to consider that thoughts affect feelings and actions.

The principal tenet of cognitive therapy is that there exists a very strong relationship between cognition, emotion, and behaviour. This cognitive theory was formulated by Dr Aaron Beck in the 1960s, and it asserts that if one alters the ways that he or she thinks, then the person’s feelings and behaviour will also be changed. Behavioural methods like Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) are aimed at changing negative thought patterns that cause psychological harm.

For instance, we can choose a subject that a given individual suffers from social phobia. For instance, an individual might possess the automatic negative cognition of ‘People will see me negatively if I contribute in this meeting’. Such thinking generates feelings of fear which in turn results in the behavioural response of non-participation. In CBT, the individual would be taught to dispute this cognition, possibly with the help of the thought, ‘Well, some people may have different opinions, but that does not necessarily mean that they will scrutinize me. ‘Such a thought might lower anxiety and facilitate social engagement. In the same way, a person suffering from depression may key in their mind, “I am a complete failure,” hence leading to worthlessness and withdrawal. CBT would assist them in noticing this dysfunctional belief and embark on reconstructing a better one such as “Everyone has strengths and the same goes for weaknesses.” Cognitive therapy as such is an intervention logged on to combating negative feelings and encouraging healthier actions as it enhances the individual’s mental health.