Digital Tool

Modifying Rules And Assumptions

This resource helps clients to modify problematic rules and assumptions that contribute to their difficulties.

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Psychology Tools resource: Modifying Rules And Assumptions

Modifying Rules And Assumptions

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) suggests that our thoughts, feelings and behaviors are shaped by the unspoken ‘rules’ and ‘assumptions’ we lived by – our deeper (and often hidden) beliefs about how we think we should act or how the world works.

This Modifying Rules and Assumptions tool can help you identify and question your unhelpful rules and assumptions. In doing so, you can develop more flexible, helpful beliefs that work for you, rather than against you.

Overview

Assumptions are often considered dysfunctional if they are inflexible, rigid, or lead to counterproductive behaviors. Modifying Rules And Assumptions is a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) worksheet which can be used to explore the origins, advantages, and disadvantages of a rule or assumption. It enables clients to develop more flexible alternative rules to apply in daily life, leading to positive changes.

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