This is when we see things in black and white categories. There is no gray area.
What is All-or-Nothing Thinking
This is when we generalize by defining yourself or another person entirely on one interaction or one behavior
What is Labeling
My partner broke up with me last night. Now I'll never meet anyone.
What is All-or-Nothing Thinking OR What is Overgeneralization
I forgot to go to a meeting at work. I'm really bad at my job.
Examples: "Missing a meeting doesn't mean I am bad at my job. I will plan better." or "I missed a meeting, I have been overwhelmed with life and this is a sign I need to make a change."
This is another term for Cognitive Distortions.
What is Faulty Thinking or Stinkin' Thinkin' or Automatic Negative Thought
They are moving to a new apartment because they don't like having me as a neighbor.
What is personalization
Types of statements that make us feel pressured, guilty or resentful that we use to motivate ourselves to do things and create unrealistic expectations.
What are "Should" statements.
I got a good grade on my college essay, the teacher probably didn't even read it and gave everyone an "A".
What is Disqualifying the Positive OR What is Minimization
I know I am going to have a panic attack when I go the party tomorrow so I should just cancel my plans now.
"I can practice my coping skills if I start to feel anxious and I can leave the party if I start to panic. But I should at least give it a try." "I have been to these types of parties before and I have never had a panic attack. I will probably be fine."
This therapeutic approach involves identifying, understanding, and challenging thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
What is CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
This is when we explain away positive or good things that happened.
What is Disqualifying the Positive
He was late to dinner. He is completely unreliable.
What is Labeling?
I have had a headache for two days. I must have a brain tumor.
"Headaches are common and happen occasionally. There is no need to worry." "If my headache doesn't go away in a day I will make an appointment with my PCP to check it out." "I am under a lot of stress and my body is probably telling me I need to take it easy."
What cognitive distortion is this? "I am anxious, something must be wrong." or "This feels good, it must be ok to do."
Emotional Reasoning or Mistaking feelings for facts