Which of the following is an effect of cognitive restructuring?

Cognitive restructuring is a therapeutic technique rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on changing unhelpful or distorted thinking patterns. The process typically involves identifying negative thought patterns, challenging their validity, and replacing them with more balanced and constructive thoughts.

By altering one's thinking, cognitive restructuring leads to improved emotional responses. For example, if someone regularly thinks, “I always fail,” that thought can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. Through cognitive restructuring, they may learn to reframe this thought by recognizing their past successes and acknowledging that occasional failures are part of learning. This shift in thinking can foster feelings of hope and motivation, resulting in healthier emotional responses to situations that might have previously felt overwhelming.

In contrast, reinforcement of negative emotions, decreased emotional resilience, and continuation of maladaptive thought patterns reflect processes that counteract the goals of cognitive restructuring. The primary aim is to promote healthier cognitive and emotional processes, thus leading to improved emotional well-being.