Outlining the Cognitive Model of Abnormality¬ `1

1. Outlining the Cognitive Model of Abnormality¬ `1

2. The Cognitive Model of Abnormality concentrates on thoughts and beliefs • The cognitive model assumes that behaviours are controlled by thoughts and beliefs. So, irrational thoughts and beliefs cause abnormal behaviour. I hate myself

3. Cognitive Therapies Try to Change Faulty Cognitions • Cognitive therapies assume that we can treat psychological disorders by eliminating or changing the original faulty thoughts and beliefs. • They’re used to treat a wide range of conditions, and can be particularly helpful with problems such as depression and anxiety. • They’ve also been shown as to be as effective as medication for some conditions.

4. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy • This generally what happens during cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): • The therapist and client identify the client’s faulty cognitions (thoughts and beliefs). • Negative automatic thoughts (NAT’s) are the negative thoughts that are elicited in people with anxiety disorders when faced with anxiety- provoking situations. • The therapist then tries to show that the cognitions aren't true, e.g. that the client doesn’t always fail at what they do • Together, they can then set goals to think in more positive or adaptive ways, e.g. focusing on things the client has succeeded at and trying to build on them

5. Although the client may occasionally need to look back to past experiences, the treatment mainly focuses on the present situation. • Therapists sometimes encourage their clients to keep a diary – they can record their thought patterns, feelings and actions. Examples of cognitive therapies are Hardiness Training and Meichenbaum’s Stress Inoculation Training (SIT), which was developed to reduce stress.