Theory A / Theory B (Archived)
NOTE: An improved version of this resource is available here: Theory A / Theory B . Older versions of a resource may be archived in the event that they are available in multiple languages, or where data indicates that the resource continues to be frequently used by clinicians.
“The most effective way of changing a misinterpretation ... is to help the person come up with an alternative, less threatening interpretation of his or her experience” (Salkovskis, 1996). Theory A Theory B is a method for reframing a problem in a less threatening way.
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Introduction & Theoretical Background
Theory A / Theory B has been variously described as a 'dual model strategy' (Wells, 1997) and 'Hypothesis A / Hypothesis B' (Salkovskis & Bass, 1997). This is a method for reframing a problem as being a result of a belief or worry, rather than as a result of a situation or fact. This worksheet pack includes 2 different versions of the worksheet, and two worked examples illustrating how to use it. "The most effective way of changing a misinterpretation ... is to help the person come up with an alternative, less threatening interpretation of his or her experience" (Salkovskis, 1996).
References And Further Reading
- Wells, A. (1997). Cognitive therapy for anxiety disorders. John Wiley & Sons.
- Salkovskis, P. M., Bass, C. (1997). Hypochondriasis. In The Science and Practice of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (eds Clark & Fairburn). Oxford: Oxford University Press.