Cognitive Elements: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy - Essay Example

"Cognitive Elements: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy" is an excellent example of a paper on the disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the best therapies for mental disorders (Richards, 2014). One of the most common mental disorders is a social anxiety disorder. It is the fear of being judged by others or scrutinized on performance or social situations. Under extreme symptoms and advanced stages, the disorder can disrupt one’s life. Different cognitive elements characterize social anxiety disorder. First, thoughts, feelings, behavior, and physiology affect each other. The four elements are linked together. The structure means that one must work for all four in order to create a lasting change. Secondly, other factors related to eating disorders are also significant (Waller, 2014). Such factors may include relationships, motivation, and social settings.

The main goal of cognitive restructuring is replacing stress-inducing thoughts with less rigid and more accurate thinking habits. Unhelpful thinking and cognitive distortions are habitual behaviors (Mills, Reiss & Dombeck, 2008). However, one may change their view and minds towards activities and events with continuous effort and practice. The process is known as cognitive restructuring. Certain strategies are used for cognitive restructuring. Firstly, tracking the accuracy of thought is crucial. Critical thinking about something helps one reach a solution. Secondly, behavioral testing of one’s thoughts is equally fundamental. Thirdly, evaluate the evidence supporting or against your thought (Boyes, 2003).

Q.2

My past thinking regarding social anxiety disorder was that it only developed from shyness. The perspective consequently changed. I developed the view that the condition grew in a person’s mind over a period. I believed one could only acquire the condition because it was not inherent. Currently, the view has changed with extensive research. I gained the knowledge that social anxiety disorder is a complication associated with the brain. I t is the fear of judgment or scrutiny.

Q.3

My knowledge concerning social anxiety disorder is majorly dependant on written journals, articles, and other works. In addition, the disorder can cause disturbance among persons suffering from it. I believe that social anxiety disorder affects a person’s perception of events and activities, a condition that can be corrected through practice. I expect improvements in the disorder to those who embrace the restructuring measures.

Q.4

My current cognition that social anxiety disorder develops from shyness is challenged by articles and periodicals written by research institutions and professionals. For instance, the Anxiety And Depression Association Of America describe the disorder as the fear of being judged or scrutinized by others. It instills powerlessness, loneliness, shame and fear in an individual.

Q.5

Cognitions can be reframed. It is a method of changing what an individual thinks or perceives something. It is a way of making people change their stress-inducing beliefs. Several methods can be used to change my cognitions. First, the structure explains that an individual should fully integrate their thoughts, feelings, behavior, and physiology for optimum change. Secondly, other factors related to eating disorders are significant. Factors such as motivation and relationships should be kept positive.

Q.6

My confidence and ability to change my cognitions are optimal. From the extensive research done by institutions on the importance of changing cognition, it is also important for me to change. The harmonization of the four elements is critical as discovered by many research institutions. In addition, disorders such as social anxiety disorder may disrupt my daily life as well as social performance.