Modifying Rules And Assumptions
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Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
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Introduction & Theoretical Background
In cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) assumptions are an intermediate stage of cognition between core beliefs (deepest level) and automatic thoughts (shallowest level). Assumptions sometimes, but not always, take the form of an "If ... then ..." statement. Assumptions are often considered dysfunctional if they are inflexible, rigid, or lead to counterproductive behaviors. Modifying Rules And Assumptions is a worksheet which can be used to explore the origins, advantages, and disadvantages of a rule or assumption. It can be used to encourage a client to make adjustments and to generate a more flexible alternative rule which can then be tested.
Therapist Guidance
The Modifying Rules And Assumptions worksheet can be used to explore the origins, advantages, and disadvantages of a rule or assumption. It can be used to encourage a client to make adjustments and to generate a more flexible alternative rule which can then be tested.
References And Further Reading
- Beck, A. T., Rush, A. J., Shaw, B. F., & Emery, G. (1979). Cognitive therapy of depression. New York: Guilford Press.