Cognitive Distortions Flashcards

Study Notes

Cognitive Distortions Overview

Cognitive distortions are irrational thought patterns that can influence emotional well-being and behavior.
A variety of cognitive distortions can lead to negative self-perceptions and misunderstandings in relationships.

Arbitrary Inference

Conclusions drawn without supporting evidence, often resulting in misinterpretation of behavior.
Example: A husband may think his wife's lateness signifies a lack of care.

Selective Abstraction

Focus on specific details while ignoring other relevant information, leading to skewed perceptions.
Example: Parents remember their teenager's defiance but overlook her efforts to please them.

Overgeneralization

One event is viewed as a pattern, impacting overall outlook negatively.
Example: A wife’s refusal for intimacy leads her husband to believe she is perpetually uninterested in sex.

Exaggeration and Minimization

Unrealistic amplification or diminishment of events can distort reality.
Example: A husband feels he contributes equally by grocery shopping twice a month while his wife views it as inadequate.

Personalization

Events are interpreted as personal reflections, affecting self-esteem and relationships.
Example: A teenager wanting time with friends may lead a father to think his son dislikes family time.

Dichotomous Thinking

Black-and-white thinking where experiences are categorized as entirely positive or negative.
Example: One partner only recalls good experiences while the other focuses solely on the negative aspects of their relationship.

Labeling

Assigning negative personality traits based on behavior, which can lead to misunderstandings.
Example: A woman’s reluctance to discuss her career becomes a label of her being “withholding.”

Mind Reading

Assumptions about others' thoughts without confirmation, hindering communication.
Example: A man avoids asking a classmate out, believing she will not reciprocate his interest.

Description

Explore the concept of cognitive distortions through these flashcards. Each card provides a definition of different types of distortions, helping you understand how they impact perceptions and judgments. Perfect for students studying psychology or cognitive behavioral therapy.