P2Unit13Cognitive Distortions and Therapy Techniques

Selective Perception

A cognitive distortion involving focusing only on certain aspects of a situation, ignoring others.

Overgeneralization

Drawing broad conclusions from a single or limited piece of evidence.

All-Or-Nothing Thinking

A cognitive distortion where events are viewed in extreme, black-and-white terms.

Behavior Therapy

A method focusing on changing observable behaviors through learning principles.

Systematic Desensitization

A gradual exposure technique paired with relaxation to reduce phobic responses.

Desensitization Hierarchy

A step-by-step list of fear-inducing situations ranked from least to most distressing.

Aversion Therapy

A method that pairs unwanted behavior with unpleasant stimuli to reduce its occurrence.

Exposure Therapy

A treatment involving direct confrontation with feared objects or situations.

Token Economy

A behavior modification system where desirable behavior is reinforced with tokens that can be exchanged for rewards.

Biomedical Therapy

A treatment that involves medication or medical procedures to address psychological disorders.

Pharmacotherapy

The use of drugs to treat symptoms of mental health conditions.

Psychotropics

Medications that alter mood, perception, or behavior by affecting brain chemistry.

Diathesis-Stress Model

A theory suggesting mental disorders result from the interaction of biological predisposition and environmental stress.

Electro-convulsive Therapy

A biomedical treatment where electrical currents are passed through the brain to treat severe depression.