Question

Erasmo, who has a long history of depression, is seeing a therapist who challenges him to change the way he thinks about events. For example, rather than believing that the recent breakup of a romantic relationship means he is a miserable human being who deserves to be alone, he might think about it as an opportunity to learn more about himself and what he wants and can provide in a relationship. This approach is characteristic of _____.

a. interpersonal psychotherapy
b. behavioral activation therapy
c. cognitive-behavioral therapy
d. mindfulness-based cognitive therapy

Answer 1

Erasmo’s therapist is using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps him to change his thought patterns regarding a recent breakup. CBT is a widely used psychotherapy developed by Aaron T. Beck that targets dysfunctional emotions and thoughts to improve mental health.

Step-by-step explanation:

The approach used by Erasmo’s therapist, which challenges him to change his thinking patterns about the breakup of a romantic relationship, is characteristic of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy focuses on modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts by interrogating and uprooting negative or irrational beliefs.

It includes strategies such as understanding the connection between thoughts and feelings, restructuring negative patterns of thought, and taking action to experience mood improvements. Developed by psychiatrists such as Aaron T. Beck, CBT is a widely practiced psychotherapy that combines cognitive and behavioral techniques to treat a variety of mental health issues, including depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy aims to transform the negative thinking that often accompanies mental health issues into a more balanced and constructive outlook, thereby reducing symptoms and improving patients’ quality of life.