In this video, I discuss the importance of understanding common cognitive biases in CBT. I explain that cognitive bias is a systematic pattern of deviation from the norm or rationality in judgment. I emphasise that people create their own subjective reality through their perceptions of what is happening around them, and that this personal construction of reality may influence their emotional distress. I provide several examples to illustrate different cognitive distortions. First, I describe Tom, who receives overwhelmingly positive feedback at work but, when he goes home, can't stop thinking about one negative point. He perceives this as quite negative feedback, demonstrating selective attention to negative information. I then give an example of Dave, walking down the street, thinking to himself, "Everyone can tell I'm a loser." I highlight how this thought is distorted for several reasons: Dave has no way of knowing what everyone else is thinking, and it's unlikely anyone would even be thinking about him, since most people are wrapped up in their own concerns. Next, I discuss an example of overgeneralization: someone who has experienced a relationship breakup concludes they will never meet anyone or love again. I point out that this conclusion broadens the evidence inappropriately, and that it's equally plausible that she will indeed meet someone again and that the breakup's cause is not entirely her fault. I conclude by noting that these are three examples of different cognitive distortions, and that there are many, many more. I recommend that if you want a complete understanding of the other cognitive biases that can be at play, you should read through Aaron Beck's book on cognitive therapy for depression, where you will learn a lot more.

Summary of the Lesson on Understanding Cognitive Bias in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

1. Introduction to Cognitive Bias

- Definition of cognitive bias: a systematic pattern of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment.
- Explanation of how individuals create their own subjective reality based on their perceptions.

2. Impact of Cognitive Bias on Perception

- Discussion on how personal construction of reality affects interactions and perceptions.
- Mention of the importance of understanding these biases in the context of CBT.

3. Example of Cognitive Distortion: Negative Feedback

- Introduction of a character, Tom, who struggles with negative feedback.
- Highlighting how Tom fixates on a single negative comment despite receiving overall positive feedback.

4. Another Example: Self-Perception

- Introduction of another character, Dave, who believes everyone sees him as a loser.
- Analysis of the distortion in Dave's thought process:
- He cannot know what others think.
- It's unlikely others are focused on him.

5. Cognitive Distortion in Relationships

- Example of a woman who believes she will never love again after a breakup.
- Discussion on the distortion of her conclusion and the possibility of future relationships.

6. Conclusion and Further Reading

- Summary of the examples of cognitive distortions discussed.
- Recommendation to read Aaron Beck's book on cognitive therapy for a deeper understanding of cognitive biases.