Psychopathology

• Disputing


  logical disputing - self-defeating beliefs do not follow logically from information available.

  empirical disputing - self-defeating beliefs may not be consistent with reality.

  pragmatic disputing - emphasises lack of usefulness of self-defeating beliefs.
• homework


  complete assignments between therapy sessions

  testing irrational beliefs against reality and putting new rational beliefs into practice

  e.g. asking someone on a date, asking friends what they really think about them
• behavioural activation


  focus on encouraging depressed clients to become more active.

  being active leads to rewards that act as an antidote for depression.

  therapist and client identify potentially pleasurable activities and anticipate and deal with any cognitive obstacles.
• unconditional positive regard


  convincing his client of their value as a human being.

  if the therapist provides respect and appreciation regardless of what the client says and does, this will facilitate a change in beliefs and attitudes.