The Theory of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Around the year 1960, Aaron Beck published a classicand run swiftly in the everyday thinking. They are
series of papers about the basic method andnot so much carefully observed or taken care of.
theoretical structure for Cognitive Behavioral Theory.Automatic thoughts mainly depend on the state of
While his early piece of writings mainly focused onones mind. If depressed, the thoughts will be low,
pathology in information processing styles in patientsnegative and ineffective.
with anxiety or depression but in his later works he3. Schemas - Also known as core beliefs, rank third
also elaborated on the behavioral methods, counterand the deepest amongst all the levels for Cognitive
avoidance and reverse helplessness. After that theBehavioral Theory. They are the templates or the
regular contributions from studies of cognitivefundamental guidelines for the information processing.
processes and behavioral therapy researchesThey are formed by the numerous life experiences
enriched this psychotherapy.and other developmental influences. They are a
A simple overview of the CBT Model: Generally ancommon target of CBT interventions as they play an
integrative multisystem model which is used by theimportant role in behavioral coping strategies and
cognitive behavioral therapists to plan the treatmentsregulating confidence.
and conceptualize the patients. The assessmentKey Behavioral Theories: During the advancement of
mainly is done based on the cognitive and behavioralmodern methods of CBT, the cognitive theories have
observations. Apart from these, the social, biological,been very well blended with the findings from the
spiritual, interpersonal and some other factors arestudied of behavioral concepts. Some of the findings
also taken into consideration.from these researches are:
Levels of Cognition:1. Behavioral Techniques are helpful in modifying
Aaron Beck and his co-workers have put forth 3depressive behavior, lack of interest, low energy and
levels of Cognition which are applicable to theother lessening of psychomotor activities.
Cognitive Behavioral Theory. They are:2. Behavioral interventions can be very helpful to
1. Full Consciousness - This is a state in which thepatients to recover coping, problem solving and social
normal decisions are made with full alertness,skills. The behavioral interventions involve activities
attentiveness and responsiveness.scheduling and other tasks.
2. Automatic Thoughts - They are in contrast with3. For anxiety disorders, the exposure therapy and
the above mentioned cognition. They are moreother such methods are beneficial and effective
independent, self governing. They are often privateinterventions.