Cognitive theory is an approach to psychology that attempts to explain human behavior by understanding your thought processes.
At a Glance
Cognitive theory focuses on how thoughts lead to emotions, anxieties, and behaviors.
Theorists compare the way the human mind functions to a computer.
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This allows therapists to use techniques from both schools of thought to help clients achieve their goals.
Social Cognitive Theory
Social cognitive theoryis a subset of cognitive theory.
Therapists use it to treat phobias and other psychological disorders.
It is primarily focused on the ways in which we learn tomodel the behavior of others.
Advertising campaigns and peer pressure situations are good examples.
Cognitive restructuring, based on cognitive theory, is part of an effective treatment plan for anxiety disorder.
Exposure
Exposure involves confronting the source of your fear or anxiety.
During treatment, people are slowly exposed to the things they fear.
Over time, exposure can help people become less fearful and feel more confident in managing their emotional responses.
These planned activities allow people to be exposed to an anxiety-provoking situation.
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