“Should” Statements
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.
"Should" Statements
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) suggests that our thoughts influence how we feel and how we act. However, some of our thoughts can be biased. Recognizing these ‘cognitive distortions’ or ‘unhelpful thinking styles’ can help you judge how accurate and useful your automatic thoughts are. This tool will introduce you to a common distortion called should statements.
Overview
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.
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