Cognitive Theories in Psychology

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FIELDSEND

COGNITIVE THEORIES IN PSYCHOLOGY

* Therapies based on the cognitive model attempt to show people that their distorted/irrational thoughts are the main contributors to their disorder. By changing faulty thinking, disorders can be treated.

* Bandura's approach to therapy uses modelling. As well as changing behaviour, models aim to change thoughts and perceptions. Modelling is useful in the treatment of phobias and is also effective in assertiveness and social skills training. One reason for this is the development of self -efficiency.

* Ellis sees emotional difficulties as a result of 'irrational beliefs'. People have the capacity for rational understanding, but are also capable of deluding themselves and thinking irrationally. Rational-emotive therapy (RET) aims to help people find flaws in their thinking by creating a dispute belief system.

* When irrational beliefs have been identified, they are substituted by more realistic ones. RET is an active, direct and argumentative approach, which has been questioned by those who stress empathy's importance in therapy. However it seems to be effective for certain disorders.

* Beck's cognitive restructuring therapy also sees disorders as stemming from irrational beliefs. The therapy is specifically designed to treat depression, and is