Thinking Errors That Are Distorting Today’s Reality (Part 1 &2)

To Mask or Not to Mask that is the question, right? Or is it to Vax or not to Vax? Or is the real question science or no science? Or Republican or Democrat? Whatever question you choose to ask, there is a lot of negativity, pessimism, contention, and fear in the world today. Perhaps the bigger question might be: are we seeing the world as it really is, or are we seeing it through a distorted lens? As the famous Descartes quote goes, “Cogito, ergo sum” or “I think therefore I am.” It’s time to find hope in the dark world and reunite our relationships, our families, and our communities by taking a deeper look at how our thinking may be distorting our living. Researchers in Cognitive Behavioral therapy have found that there are 9 fairly typical cognitive distortions that can, if undetected, wreak havoc on our lives, relationships, and mental health. Over the next two appearances on Studio 5, we will review all of the 9 Cognitive distortions that are causing 100% of the tension in our interpersonal relationships and community conflict. Here are 4 of the most common Thinking Errors Distorting Today’s Reality and how a healthier view that will create more peace.

Distortion #1 - Emotional Reasoning - When We Let our Feelings Guide Our Interpretations

We’ve all experienced Emotional Reasoning, like a young couple in love feeling sure their partner will never hurt them. The problem is that emotions are wrong just as often as they’re right. Emotions are designed to save your hide, not guide your life. A healthier view is to let your highest values and principles govern your actions, transcending reactive emotions.

Distortion #2 - Catastrophizing - When we See the Worst Possible Outcome as The Most Likely

Our brain distorts realities to prepare for worst-case scenarios. Catastrophizing comes from our basic survival instincts but is not conducive to a loving home or a peaceful weekend. A healthier view involves assuming the best, working hard to improve life, and strengthening your ability to handle difficult situations.

Distortion #3 - Overgeneralizing - Perceiving a global pattern of negatives based on a simple incident

Overgeneralizing oversimplifies the complex world to fit narrow paradigms. It leads to sweeping assumptions about all people without sufficient understanding. A healthier view is to be specific, acknowledging that your experiences are yours and unique to your situation at that moment.

Distortion #4 - Dichotomous Thinking - Viewing events or people through a Black or White lens

Dichotomous thinking sees the world in binary terms, limiting perspectives to all or nothing, good/bad, right/wrong. This black-and-white lens restricts negotiation and growth. A healthier view embraces a “Yes And!” mindset, recognizing the shades of grey between extremes and allowing for change and adjustment.

Distortion #5 - Mind Reading:

- Description: Assuming you know exactly what others are thinking.

- Problem: Prevents understanding; assumptions hinder true knowledge of others.

- Healthy View: Instead of assuming, ask and listen to understand their thoughts.

Distortion #6 - Labeling:

- Description: Making judgments about oneself or others based on simplified categories.

- Problem: Oversimplified labels are inaccurate and biased.

- Healthy View: See human behavior as complex, avoiding quick, inaccurate judgments.

Distortion #7 - Negative Filtering:

- Description: Focusing predominantly on the negative and neglecting positive aspects.

- Problem: Skews perspective and hampers a balanced view.

- Healthy View: Strive for a balanced understanding, acknowledging positives and negatives.

Distortion #8 - Discounting Positives:

- Description: Reframing positive actions as negative to maintain a negative judgment.

- Problem: Undermines genuine understanding and creates a skewed reality.

- Healthy View: Acknowledge and appreciate positives without distorting facts.

Distortion #9 - Blaming:

- Description: Focusing on others as the source of negative feelings, avoiding personal responsibility.

- Problem: Hinders problem-solving, perpetuates a victim mindset.

- Healthy View: Take responsibility for feelings and actions, avoid blaming others.

In reuniting relationships, families, and communities, recognizing and correcting these thinking errors can pave the way for a more balanced and understanding perspective.