Overgeneralization is a cognitive distortion where an individual makes broad interpretations from a single or few events, often leading to inaccurate conclusions and negative thinking patterns. This bias can contribute to anxiety and depression by reinforcing negative beliefs and limiting one's ability to see situations objectively.
Dichotomous thinking is a cognitive distortion that involves viewing situations in a binary way, such as seeing things as either all good or all bad, without recognizing any middle ground or complexity. This type of thinking can lead to misinterpretations and emotional distress as it oversimplifies reality and ignores the nuanced nature of most situations.
Polarized thinking, also known as black-and-white thinking, is a cognitive distortion where individuals perceive situations in extremes, with no middle ground. This mindset can lead to negative emotional states and hinder problem-solving by oversimplifying complex issues.
Negative thinking patterns are habitual thought processes that can distort reality, exacerbate stress, and lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Recognizing and challenging these patterns is crucial for improving emotional well-being and fostering a more balanced perspective.
Simplified generalizations are like shortcuts our brains use to understand the world quickly, but they can sometimes be wrong because they don't include all the details. It's like thinking all dogs are friendly just because the ones you've met are nice, but some might not be, and that's why we have to learn more about each one.