Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A Comprehensive Overview
*Introduction - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most extensively researched and widely used forms of psychotherapy. It is a time-limited, structured, and goal-oriented approach focused on identifying and changing negative patterns of thinking and behavior. CBT is based on the concept that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and altering one can influence the others. Originally developed to treat depression, CBT has since been adapted for a wide range of mental health conditions. Historical Background CBT evolved from two major traditions in psychology: behaviorism and cognitive psychology. 1. Behaviorism In the early 20th century, behaviorism emerged as a dominant force in psychology, with figures like B.F. Skinner and John Watson emphasizing the importance of observable behavior over internal mental states. Behavior therapy focused on modifying maladaptive behaviors through techniques such as classical and operant cond...