What does 'cognitive distortion' indicate?

Cognitive distortion refers to a negative thinking pattern that significantly impacts emotional well-being. These distortions are often characterized by irrational or exaggerated thoughts about oneself, others, or situations. Such patterns can lead to increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and overall negative emotional states.

For example, someone may engage in all-or-nothing thinking, where they see situations in black-and-white terms, overlooking any middle ground or possible nuances. This type of thinking can exacerbate stress and reinforce feelings of inadequacy or hopelessness, influencing behaviors and interactions negatively. Recognizing and addressing these distortions is a foundational aspect of cognitive-behavioral therapy, helping individuals challenge and modify their thought patterns to improve mental health.

In contrast, positive thinking patterns or a neutral perspective do not adequately describe cognitive distortion, as they do not involve these detrimental thought processes or their resultant negative emotional impacts. Additionally, while cognitive behavioral therapy aims to address and correct cognitive distortions, identifying cognitive distortion itself is not synonymous with therapy but rather a feature of the distorted thought process affecting an individual's mental health.