Explain the cognitive-behavioral perspective on mental health.

• A. Thoughts do not influence feelings.
• B. Only biology matters.
• C. Thoughts influence feelings and behaviors; changing negative thought patterns can improve mood and functioning.
• D. Mood causes thoughts.

Answer: (C)

In the cognitive-behavioral view, thoughts, feelings, and actions are deeply interconnected. The way we interpret or think about a situation shapes how we feel and how we behave, and those feelings and actions can reinforce or change our thoughts. Because of this, unhelpful or distorted thinking can maintain distress, while changing those thought patterns can lead to improvements in mood and functioning. That’s why the statement that thoughts influence feelings and behaviors, and that changing negative thought patterns can improve mood and functioning, best captures this perspective. For example, if someone believes “I always fail,” they may feel discouraged and withdraw; challenging that belief and examining evidence can lead to more engagement and better mood. The other views miss the core idea: thoughts play a causal role in emotions and actions, biology isn’t the sole factor, and mood doesn’t simply cause thoughts in a one-way street.