MCAT® ExamPsychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of BehaviorMedium
A patient undergoing therapy for depression is asked to identify and challenge their negative automatic thoughts, such as 'I am a failure' or 'Nothing good ever happens to me.' The therapist helps the patient reframe these thoughts into more balanced and realistic perspectives. This therapeutic approach is characteristic of which of the following?
- APsychodynamic therapy
- BDialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- CHumanistic therapy
- DCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing distorted thought patterns (cognitions) and maladaptive behaviors. The scenario directly describes challenging negative automatic thoughts, a core component of CBT.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Psychodynamic therapy focuses on unconscious conflicts and past experiences, not directly challenging automatic thoughts.
- B. DBT is a specialized form of CBT, but its primary focus is on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, often for borderline personality disorder.
- C. Humanistic therapy emphasizes self-actualization and personal growth, not cognitive restructuring.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
A type of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change unhelpful or unhealthy thinking patterns and behaviors.
- Focuses on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
- Goal-oriented and problem-focused
- Widely used for depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions
Memory trick: CBT changes thoughts, then behaviors follow.