The CBT Triangle - SEL Sketches


The "CBT Triangle" typically refers to the Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) triangle or cognitive model. CBT is a widely used therapeutic approach that focuses on helping individuals identify and change their negative thought patterns and behaviors to improve their emotional well-being. The CBT triangle is a fundamental concept in CBT and is used to illustrate the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Here's a breakdown of the CBT triangle:

  1. Thoughts: At the top of the triangle, you have thoughts. This represents your cognitive processes, including your beliefs, self-talk, and interpretations of events. In CBT, thoughts are considered a crucial factor influencing our emotions and behaviors. Distorted or negative thoughts can lead to emotional distress and unhelpful behaviors.
  2. Feelings: On one side of the triangle, you have feelings or emotions. This represents the emotional responses that arise as a result of your thoughts. In CBT, it's emphasized that our thoughts have a direct impact on our emotional experiences. For example, if you have negative or irrational thoughts, it's likely to lead to negative emotions like sadness, anxiety, or anger.
  3. Behaviors: On the other side of the triangle, you have behaviors. This represents the actions and reactions that are influenced by your thoughts and emotions. How you behave is often a result of the thoughts and feelings you're experiencing. For instance, if you're feeling anxious due to negative thoughts, you may engage in avoidance behaviors.

The CBT triangle highlights that these three components are interconnected and can have a cyclical effect. Here's how it works:

  • Thoughts influence feelings: Your thoughts can trigger specific emotions. For example, if you think that you are a failure, you may feel depressed or anxious.
  • Feelings influence behaviors: Your emotions often guide your behaviors. If you're feeling angry, you might react aggressively or withdraw from a situation.
  • Behaviors influence thoughts: Your actions can reinforce or challenge your thoughts. If you face your fears by confronting a situation you've been avoiding, it can lead to more positive thoughts.

CBT therapists use the CBT triangle to help individuals recognize and understand this relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By identifying and challenging irrational or negative thought patterns, individuals can change their emotional responses and behaviors, ultimately leading to improved mental well-being. CBT techniques, such as cognitive restructuring and behavior modification, are often employed to work on these aspects of the triangle.


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