![]() ![]() In the simplest terms, cognitive distortions are errors in thinking. ![]() The term “distortion” is used because these negative thoughts lead to untrue and unrealistic conclusions or even distortions of reality itself. When harmful patterns of thought occur repeatedly, this meets the definition of a cognitive distortion. Cognitive Distortion: When Negative Thinking Forms a Larger Pattern Whatever the true root of our negative thought patterns, we can all take steps to empower ourselves to overcome them and break free of their influence. The primary driver of a negative thought pattern will vary greatly depending on the person engaged in the negative thinking, their particular history, their triggers, and their current mental health situation. What is the main cause of negative thinking? There is no single main cause that we can point to, as negative thinking arises from a complex web of dynamic factors. It is perhaps no wonder we can be so fixated on the negative things around us. Even modern human history is in many ways a tale of violence and terror. Our evolutionary makeup is based on a need to fight and survive. Our culture and media often glorify struggle and conflict. There are many theories as to why human beings sometimes seem so hyper-focused on the negative aspects of existence. Someone experiencing mental health struggles can be led into a depressive spiral of negative thoughts by any number of possible triggers-from unhelpful advice to minor relationship issues-and those negative thoughts can take on a variety of different forms. Yet, the effects of this thinking can be all too real for someone struggling with their mental health.īreaking the cycle of negative thought patterns requires learning how to cope effectively with the feelings and triggers that lead to negative thinking. Negative thought patterns, or cognitive distortions, can manifest as incorrect assumptions, unrealistic self-criticisms, and even the denial of reality itself. Is it Time for a New Primary Care Physician? Take the Quiz.Is the Acute Psychiatric Outpatient Program Right For Me? Take the Quiz.Professional Reps: Book Your Visit to Sage.Is TMS Treatment Right for Me? Take the Quiz.Substance Use Disorder IOP Group Therapy Tracks.Is It Time for Opioid Detox? Take the Quiz.Medically Assisted Treatment & Outpatient Detox. ![]() In other words, the vulnerable individual is likely to "read" more into a forbidden thought, just as a chronically anxious employee, for example, tends to read more into the boss's tone of voice or facial expression. "On the other hand," warns Barlow, "if you feel that events are essentially out of your control, you're probably going to be much more vulnerable" to forbidden or unwanted thoughts. The more in-control we feel, Barlow says, the less likely we are to interpret any event, whether external or coming from inside our heads, as worthy of concern or rumination. One factor may be what psychologists call "controllability." Closely related to self-esteem, controllability is the measure of an individual's sense of power, or control, over events in his or her life. Researchers have also identified certain higher-level cognitive factors that can influence the kinds of thoughts the brain latches on to, and how it interprets them. The findings can also help explain fantasies like Beth's, which, according to Barlow and other researchers, are quite common among young, stressed-out parents. These findings could help explain why drugs like Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft can inhibit or moderate the fixation process.
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