Which of the following statements about cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is true?

• A. CBT is primarily based on unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences.
• B. CBT does not involve any structured techniques or homework assignments.
• C. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
• D. CBT is only effective for treating severe psychotic disorders.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the core principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a form of psychotherapy that emphasizes the role of thoughts and behaviors in influencing emotions and mental health.
2. Step 2: Recognize that CBT is based on the idea that negative patterns of thinking and behavior can be identified and changed to improve psychological well-being.
3. Step 3: Note that CBT is structured and often involves specific techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral experiments, and homework assignments to practice skills outside therapy sessions.
4. Step 4: Differentiate CBT from other therapeutic approaches, such as psychoanalysis, which focuses more on unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences.
5. Step 5: Understand that CBT is effective for a wide range of disorders, including anxiety and depression, but it is not limited to severe psychotic disorders and is not primarily designed for those conditions.