Ch 8 CBT & Mindfulness Couple & Family Therapist

A-B-C Theory

A cognitive model where A is the activating event B is the belief about the event and C is the emotional or behavioral consequence

Arbitrary Inference

A cognitive distortion where conclusions are made with little or no supporting evidence

Classical Conditioning

A learning process in which a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a natural response through repeated pairing

Cognitive Distortions

Inaccurate or unhelpful thought patterns such as overgeneralization or mind reading that contribute to emotional and relational problems

Dichotomous Thinking

A cognitive distortion involving all or nothing thinking where situations are viewed in extremes

Functional Analysis

An assessment method that identifies antecedents behaviors and consequences to understand the function of a behavior

Operant Conditioning

A learning process where behavior is shaped through reinforcement and punishment

Problem Analysis

A process of defining vague concerns into specific observable behaviors and their emotional consequences

Schemas

Core beliefs and assumptions about oneself others and relationships that guide perception and behavior

Behavior Exchange Quid Pro Quo

A negotiation strategy where partners agree to exchange specific behaviors in a this for that arrangement

Bibliotherapy

The use of assigned reading materials to support therapeutic goals and client insight

Contingency Contracting

A structured agreement outlining behavioral expectations and associated rewards or consequences

Psychoeducation

The process of teaching clients about psychological concepts to enhance understanding and coping

Socratic Method Guided Discovery

A questioning technique that helps clients examine and challenge dysfunctional beliefs through self-discovery

Thought Records

A structured journaling tool used to track situations thoughts emotions and alternative perspectives

Token Economies

A behavioral system where desired behaviors are reinforced with tokens that can be exchanged for rewards

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT

A third wave behavioral therapy that emphasizes acceptance of internal experiences and commitment to value driven action

Dialectical Behavior Therapy DBT

A therapy that integrates acceptance and change strategies to help regulate intense emotions and improve relationships

Loving Kindness Meditation

A mindfulness practice focused on cultivating compassion by directing positive intentions toward oneself and others

Mindfulness

The practice of maintaining nonjudgmental awareness of the present moment including thoughts emotions and bodily sensations

Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse

Four destructive communication patterns criticism defensiveness contempt and stonewalling that predict relationship distress

Love Maps

A detailed understanding of a partner's inner world including their experiences stressors and aspirations

Perpetual Problems

Ongoing conflicts rooted in fundamental differences that are common and often unsolvable in relationships

Repair Attempts

Efforts made during conflict to deescalate tension restore connection or prevent further negativity

Sound Relationship House

A Gottman model describing seven levels of a healthy relationship including friendship conflict management and shared meaning