This module examines how we learn through experience to develop automated patterns of thought to various situations.  These patterns of thought are often unhelpful to our well-being, taint our perceptions, are frequently distorted, contain unjustifiable assumptions and conclusions and can be so habitual that their nature escapes our awareness.  They are, essentially, automated and mindless.

The good news is that with effort toward self-awareness and persistence these distortions of cognition can be replaced with kinder, less unhelpful patterns of thought.  The aim of this module to is enable the participant to examine their own “thought habits” with a view to identifying distortions in thinking and replacing them with more helpful ones.

The vignette to follow shows how patterns of thought can shape the perceptions of two students experiencing the same kind of event.  Keep these two students in mind as you progress through the discussion of the types and effects of distorted thinking.