What is the main purpose of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)?

The main purpose of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is to change negative thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress. CBT operates on the principle that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected. By identifying and challenging irrational or distorted thinking, individuals can alter their emotional responses and behaviors, leading to improved mental health.

In therapy, clients learn to recognize cognitive distortions, such as overgeneralization or catastrophizing, that may lead to feelings of anxiety or depression. By reframing these thoughts and learning healthier thinking patterns, individuals can experience a reduction in emotional distress and a more positive outlook on life. CBT is structured and goal-oriented, making it particularly effective for a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, and stress management.

While other options might seem relevant, they do not accurately capture CBT's primary focus. For instance, eliminating emotional distress completely is neither feasible nor the goal of this therapeutic approach. Instead, CBT aims to equip individuals with skills to manage distress rather than remove it entirely. Similarly, mediating between personal and societal goals and exploring unconscious motives relate to different therapeutic modalities, such as humanistic or psychodynamic therapies, which emphasize different aspects of psychological healing.