In the context of cognitive psychology, cognitive therapy is most likely to:

• A. Focus primarily on unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences
• B. Help individuals identify and change distorted patterns of thinking
• C. Emphasize the use of medication to treat psychological disorders
• D. Encourage clients to express repressed emotions through free association

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the main goal of cognitive therapy within cognitive psychology, which is to address how thoughts influence emotions and behaviors.
2. Recognize that cognitive therapy focuses on identifying and modifying distorted or maladaptive thinking patterns rather than exploring unconscious conflicts or childhood experiences.
3. Note that unlike psychoanalysis, cognitive therapy does not primarily emphasize unconscious processes or free association techniques.
4. Acknowledge that cognitive therapy typically involves active collaboration between therapist and client to develop healthier thinking habits, rather than relying on medication.
5. Conclude that the most accurate description of cognitive therapy is that it helps individuals identify and change distorted patterns of thinking.