Which CBT technique involves questioning and challenging irrational thoughts? 

The correct answer is: Socratic questioning.

Socratic questioning is a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) technique designed to help individuals challenge and change irrational or maladaptive thoughts. This method involves asking a series of guided questions to encourage deeper thinking and self-reflection, ultimately leading to more rational and adaptive thought patterns.

Key Points

• Socratic questioning:
  • Socratic questioning helps individuals to critically evaluate their thoughts and beliefs.
  • The technique involves asking open-ended questions that challenge the validity and logic of irrational thoughts.
  • It encourages self-reflection and helps individuals understand the evidence for and against their thoughts.
  • This method helps in identifying cognitive distortions and replacing them with more balanced and realistic thoughts.
  • Questions typically used in Socratic questioning include: "What evidence supports this thought?" and "Is there an alternative explanation?"

Additional Information

• Exposure therapy:
  • Exposure therapy is a CBT technique used primarily to treat anxiety disorders, including phobias and PTSD.
  • It involves gradually exposing the individual to feared objects or situations in a controlled manner, reducing the fear response over time.
  • This technique does not focus on questioning thoughts but rather on reducing avoidance behaviors.
• Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT):
  • REBT is a type of CBT developed by Albert Ellis that focuses on identifying and changing irrational beliefs.
  • It involves challenging these irrational beliefs and replacing them with more rational ones, similar to Socratic questioning.
  • However, REBT uses a more direct and confrontational approach compared to the gentle probing of Socratic questioning.
• Mindfulness meditation:
  • Mindfulness meditation is a practice that involves focusing on the present moment and accepting thoughts and feelings without judgment.
  • It aims to increase awareness and acceptance of one's experiences rather than challenging or changing specific thoughts.
  • This technique is different from Socratic questioning, which actively seeks to alter thought patterns.