This resource provides an in-depth exploration of "should" statements: a common cognitive distortion characterized by fixed ‘rules’ on how the self, others, and the world should operate, coupled with overestimations of how awful it would be if these expectations are not met.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Cognitive distortions or "unhelpful thinking styles" are characteristic ways in which thoughts become biased and often lead to emotional distress. "Should” statements (sometimes referred to as ‘musturbation’, ‘necessitous thinking’, ‘self-commands’, and ‘injunctions’) are characterized by imposing fixed ‘rules’ on how the self, others, and the world should operate, coupled with overestimations of how awful it would be if these expectations are not met. Terms such as “should”, “must”, and “ought to” often appear in this style of thinking. This resource is part of the cognitive distortions series and aims to aid therapists in addressing these biases effectively.
Clinicians can use this handout to educate and assist clients in:
Driven by self-imposed high standards.
Stemming from unmet expectations of others.
Related to unrealistic social expectations.
"Should" statements are common in anxiety, depression, OCD, and low self-esteem.
Provide psychoeducation on cognitive distortions and their origins.
Recognize "should" statements within clients' automatic thoughts.
Encourage clients to notice rigid rule-driven thinking as it arises.
Tackle unhelpful "should" statements using techniques like cognitive restructuring and behavioral experiments.
Cognitive distortions such as "should" statements are characterized by rigid, imperative language leading to negative emotional outcomes. Albert Ellis identified these as central in emotional disorders, while Beck highlighted their prevalence in depression. From an evolutionarily perspective, necessitous thinking may have been advantageous for resource allocation and threat management.
Therapists can support client in identifying these biases and addressing them. Tools such as cost-benefit analyses and cognitive restructuring empower clients to challenge these internal statements and view them as mental events rather than facts.
Therapists benefit from an accessible resource and structured guidance for working with cognitive distortions that supports client progress.
