What is the primary focus of cognitive-behavioral therapy?

What is the primary focus of cognitive-behavioral therapy?

• A. Changing behaviors that trigger anxiety
• B. Changing thoughts that trigger anxiety
• C. Changing emotions that trigger anxiety
• D. Changing physical responses that trigger anxiety

Answer: (B)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) primarily focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety and other emotional challenges. The approach is based on the premise that our thoughts influence our feelings and behaviors. By addressing the cognitive distortions—such as catastrophizing or all-or-nothing thinking—that individuals may have, CBT helps them reframe their thoughts more positively and realistically. This method emphasizes the importance of understanding how thoughts lead to emotional responses, enabling clients to develop healthier ways of thinking that can reduce anxiety. Rather than solely changing behaviors, emotions, or physical responses, which might be components of therapy sessions, the core mechanism of change within CBT is through modifying the underlying thought processes that lead to anxiety symptoms. This cognitive restructuring is central to CBT's effectiveness in treating various psychological issues.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) primarily focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety and other emotional challenges. The approach is based on the premise that our thoughts influence our feelings and behaviors. By addressing the cognitive distortions—such as catastrophizing or all-or-nothing thinking—that individuals may have, CBT helps them reframe their thoughts more positively and realistically.

This method emphasizes the importance of understanding how thoughts lead to emotional responses, enabling clients to develop healthier ways of thinking that can reduce anxiety. Rather than solely changing behaviors, emotions, or physical responses, which might be components of therapy sessions, the core mechanism of change within CBT is through modifying the underlying thought processes that lead to anxiety symptoms. This cognitive restructuring is central to CBT's effectiveness in treating various psychological issues.