Question

Aidan's therapist believes that cognitive-behavioral therapy will help to relieve the symptoms of his major depressive disorder. As part of this therapy, his therapist will most likely suggest that Aidan a. take an antidepressant for 8 weeks before coming back for another visit b. sit under a high-intensity light source for a short period each day c. expose himself to situations that make him feel depressed until his mood improves d. keep a journal to track his negative thoughts and then work to change his thoughts

Short answer

The correct answer is (d). Aidan's therapist will most likely suggest that he keeps a journal to track his negative thoughts and then works to change those thoughts as part of cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Step-by-step solution

Review each option

Let's briefly analyze the options provided: a. Taking an antidepressant for 8 weeks before coming back for another visit - This option relates to medication, which is not part of cognitive-behavioral therapy. b. Sitting under a high-intensity light source for a short period each day - This is a treatment option for seasonal affective disorder, not specifically cognitive-behavioral therapy. c. Exposing himself to situations that make him feel depressed until his mood improves - This is a counterintuitive response and could potentially cause further harm to the individual. It is not aligned with cognitive-behavioral therapy. d. Keeping a journal to track his negative thoughts and then working to change his thoughts - This option is directly related to cognitive-behavioral therapy as it works on changing an individual's thoughts and behaviors.

Identify the correct choice

Between the provided options, the one that matches the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy is option (d). Aidan's therapist will most likely suggest that he keeps a journal to track his negative thoughts and then works to change those thoughts. Cognitive-behavioral therapy focuses on changing thought patterns and behaviors to improve the symptoms of mental disorders like major depressive disorder.

Key concepts

Major Depressive Disorder

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a form of clinical depression that severely affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. This mood disorder can manifest as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and various physical symptoms such as fatigue and changes in sleep or appetite. Those with MDD may struggle with feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and some may even have thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

The causes of MDD are complex and can include:

• Biochemical factors, involving changes in the brain's neurotransmitters.
• Genetic factors, as MDD can run in families.
• Environmental factors, such as exposure to violence, abuse, or prolonged stress.
• Psychological factors, including personality traits like excessive pessimism.

MDD requires comprehensive treatment, which usually involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the effective psychotherapy approaches used to treat this disorder.

Therapy Techniques

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) uses various therapy techniques to help individuals understand and reframe their thinking patterns and behavior. It's a structured, goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that enables people to challenge their thoughts and replace them with more balanced and accurate perceptions.

Some of the key techniques used in CBT include:

• Journaling and Thought Records: Patients are encouraged to keep detailed accounts of their thoughts and emotions to identify patterns.
• Cognitive Restructuring: This technique helps to identify and challenge irrational or distorted thoughts.
• Behavioral Activation: Involves engaging in activities that are intended to counteract the depression and bring about better moods.
• Problem-Solving: Patients are taught to tackle problems by breaking them down into manageable parts.

These techniques are instrumental in addressing the symptoms of disorders such as major depressive disorder, by fostering healthier thought processes and behaviors.

Negative Thought Patterns

Negative thought patterns are misleading and destructive beliefs that can lead individuals into emotional distress and behavioral problems. In Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, overcoming these thought patterns is a primary focus. These patterns, also known as cognitive distortions, can influence the way we interpret events and react to them.

Some common negative thought patterns include:

• All-or-Nothing Thinking: Viewing situations in black-and-white terms without recognizing any gray areas.
• Overgeneralization: Taking a single event and viewing it as an ongoing pattern.
• Catastrophizing: Expecting the worst possible outcome in any situation.
• Personalization: Taking responsibility for things that are out of one's control.

By identifying these patterns, CBT helps individuals to reformulate their thoughts in a more rational and balanced way, thus alleviating symptoms associated with disorders like major depressive disorder. This process empowers individuals to manage their emotions and reactions more effectively.