In cognitive-behavioral therapy, which of the following techniques is commonly used?

• A. Hypnosis
• B. Negative reinforcement
• C. Cognitive restructuring
• D. Pharmacological intervention

Answer: (C)

Cognitive restructuring is a fundamental technique used in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on identifying and altering negative thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress and maladaptive behaviors. This process involves helping individuals recognize distorted thoughts, challenging their validity, and replacing them with more realistic and positive thinking. By changing these cognitive patterns, individuals can reduce their symptoms and improve their overall mental health.

In CBT, cognitive restructuring seeks to empower individuals by providing them with tools to critically examine their thoughts. This can lead to healthier emotional responses and improved coping strategies in various situations. The effectiveness of cognitive restructuring in treating disorders such as depression and anxiety highlights its importance in the CBT framework.

While other choices might be associated with psychological practices, they do not embody techniques critical to CBT specifically. Hypnosis is more aligned with other therapeutic approaches, negative reinforcement is a concept from behaviorism related to the modification of behavior rather than cognitive techniques, and pharmacological intervention involves medication, which falls outside the scope of psychotherapeutic techniques like CBT.