What are underlying assumptions in cognitive-behavioral therapy?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The underlying assumptions in CBT refer specifically to deeply held beliefs that influence how individuals interpret their experiences and respond to various situations. These assumptions are often framed as "if-then" beliefs, which represent an individual's automatic thought processes. For example, a person might think, "If I fail this exam, then I am a failure," which reveals a core belief that is not immediately observable but profoundly impacts their emotional and behavioral responses.

These deeper cognitive beliefs can shape a person’s outlook and behavior, guiding them in how they relate to their environment and themselves. Recognizing and challenging these underlying assumptions is a crucial part of CBT, as addressing them can lead to significant changes in a person's thought patterns and behaviors, ultimately promoting healthier emotional functioning.

In contrast, options referring to surface-level beliefs or social beliefs miss the complexity of these deeper cognitive processes. Implicit biases, while relevant in some contexts, do not specifically encapsulate the core focus of CBT on cognitive restructuring of individual thought processes. Therefore, the characterization of underlying assumptions as "if-then" beliefs captures the essence of their role in cognitive-behavioral therapy effectively.