Which principle underlies cognitive therapy?

• A. Behavior is shaped mainly by reinforcement and punishment.
• B. Thoughts influence emotions and behaviors.
• C. Human behavior is determined by genetic predispositions.
• D. Unconscious conflicts are the primary cause of psychological distress.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the core focus of cognitive therapy, which is a type of psychotherapy aimed at changing patterns of thinking or behavior that are behind people's difficulties.
2. Understand that cognitive therapy is based on the principle that our thoughts influence our emotions and behaviors, meaning that by changing maladaptive thoughts, we can improve emotional well-being and behavior.
3. Contrast this with other psychological principles: behaviorism focuses on reinforcement and punishment, psychoanalysis emphasizes unconscious conflicts, and biological approaches highlight genetic predispositions.
4. Recognize that cognitive therapy specifically targets the cognitive processes (thoughts) rather than external behaviors alone or unconscious drives.
5. Conclude that the principle underlying cognitive therapy is that thoughts influence emotions and behaviors, which guides the therapeutic techniques used.