Psychology Glossary

Always being “Right” Internal opinions as facts. Doesn’t consider others feelings

better thinking instead of Always being “Right”: Being open-minded and considering different perspectives. Understanding that opinions are subjective and being willing to listen and learn from others. Respecting others’ feelings and viewpoints.

Black and White Thinking Sees things in either/or terms

better thinking instead of Black and White Thinking: Recognising that there are often shades of gray and multiple perspectives in any situation. Being open to complexity and ambiguity rather than rigidly categorising things into strict black or white categories. Embracing nuance and flexibility in thinking.

Blaming Opposite of Personalisation. All blame on someone else.

better thinking instead of Blaming: Taking responsibility for one’s own actions and acknowledging the role one plays in a situation. Understanding that blame does not solve problems and focusing on finding solutions instead. Practicing empathy and understanding towards others rather than placing blame.

Catastrophising A logical fallacy where you take a small problem and bow it way of out proportion. ^a43ccd

better thinking instead of Catastrophising: Putting problems into perspective and recognising that most situations are not as dire as they may initially seem. Practicing mindfulness and staying grounded in the present moment. Finding constructive ways to address problems rather than succumbing to catastrophic thinking.

Cognitive Distortions Cognitive distortions are patterns of thinking that are inaccurate and negatively biased. Catastrophising is one example of a cognitive distortion, where individuals blow things out of proportion and imagine the worst-case scenario.

Control Fallacy Takes fault for things out of control

better thinking instead of Control Fallacy: Recognising that not everything is within one’s control and accepting that it is okay to not be able to control everything. Focusing on what can be controlled and taking proactive steps towards managing those aspects. Letting go of the need to control everything and practicing acceptance of uncertainty.

Discounting the positive Disregarding any compliments or positive reinforcement

better thinking instead of Discounting the positive: Acknowledging and appreciating compliments and positive feedback. Recognising one’s strengths and achievements. Practicing gratitude for the good things in life and focusing on the positive aspects of oneself and others.

Emotional Reasoning Assuming that because you feel a certain way, what you think must be true.

better thinking instead of Emotional Reasoning: Separating emotions from facts and recognising that feelings are not always an accurate reflection of reality. Examining thoughts critically and evaluating them based on evidence rather than solely relying on emotions. Seeking a balanced perspective by considering both emotions and rationality.

Labeling Assigning labels to oneself or others based on behavior

better thinking instead of Labeling: Recognising that individuals are complex and multifaceted, and that behavior does not define a person entirely. Avoiding stereotypes and generalizations based on superficial characteristics. Engaging in open-mindedness and curiosity towards understanding others beyond labels.

Emotional Reasoning Mistaking your feelings for reality

Better thinking instead of Emotional Reasoning: Recognising that feelings are not always an accurate reflection of reality. Taking a step back to evaluate the situation objectively and consider alternative perspectives. Seeking evidence and facts to support or challenge your emotional responses before making decisions. Practicing mindfulness and self-awareness to manage emotions effectively.

Fallacy of Change Assumes other people must change in order for us to be happy

Better thinking instead of Fallacy of Change: Understanding that happiness and fulfillment come from within oneself, rather than relying on others to change in order for us to be happy. Focusing on personal growth and self-improvement, rather than expecting others to change to meet our needs. Accepting others as they are and working on building healthy relationships based on mutual respect and understanding.

Fallacy of fairness Things have to be measured on fairness and equality

Better thinking instead of Fallacy of Fairness: Recognising that life is not always fair and that fairness and equality are subjective concepts. Accepting that not everything will be distributed equally or turn out in a way that feels fair. Focusing on personal growth and resilience in the face of adversity, rather than getting caught up in seeking fairness in every situation. Practicing gratitude for what one has, rather than dwelling on perceived injustices.

Filtering Filters out info, negative or positive, similar to Discounting

Better thinking instead of Filtering: Taking in information with an open mind and considering both positive and negative aspects. Avoiding the tendency to only focus on one aspect of a situation while ignoring the rest. Embracing a balanced view that includes all relevant information before making judgments or decisions.

Labeling Labels someone/thing based off 1 or 2 experiences/events

Better thinking instead of Labeling: Recognising the complexity and individuality of people and situations, rather than reducing them to simplistic labels based on limited information. Being open to new experiences and perspectives that may challenge or expand existing labels. Avoiding making snap judgments and allowing for growth and change in oneself and others.

Fortune Telling Tends to “Predict the future” seeing a negative outcome

Better thinking instead of Fortune Telling: Recognising that predicting the future is not always accurate or helpful, and that it is important to stay open to different possibilities. Challenging negative assumptions and considering alternative outcomes. Practicing optimism and focusing on the present moment rather than getting caught up in catastrophic predictions.

Heaven’s reward fallacy Expect rewards for own sacrifices

Better thinking instead of Heaven’s reward fallacy: Understanding that sacrifices should not be made with the expectation of receiving a specific reward or outcome. Recognising that doing good deeds or making sacrifices should come from a place of genuine care and compassion, rather than seeking external validation or rewards. Finding intrinsic motivation and fulfillment in the act of giving without expecting anything in return.

Magnifying Exaggerated or blown out of proportion, “Mountain out of a molehill”

Better thinking instead of Magnifying: Putting things into perspective and recognising when a situation is being blown out of proportion. Taking a step back to evaluate the importance and impact of the situation objectively. Practicing mindfulness and focusing on realistic assessments rather than exaggerating the significance of minor issues.

Mind reading Thinking you know what someone thinks/feels ^f8b578

Better thinking instead of Mind reading: Communicating openly and directly with others to understand their thoughts and feelings. Avoiding assumptions about what others may be thinking or feeling, and instead asking for clarification or expressing empathy. Recognising that everyone’s perspective is unique and being open to listening and learning from others’ experiences.

Minimising Minimising positive events/downplay

Better thinking instead of Minimising: Recognising and appreciating the positive events and accomplishments in your life. Avoiding the tendency to downplay or dismiss your achievements. Practicing self-compassion and acknowledging your successes, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrating your wins and giving yourself credit for your efforts.

Personalisation Takes blame for everything

Better thinking instead of Personalisation: Recognising that not everything is your fault and that it is okay to set boundaries and take care of yourself. Understanding that you are not responsible for the actions or emotions of others. Practicing self-care and self-compassion by prioritising your well-being and not taking on unnecessary blame or guilt.

Should statements Use “should”, “must”, “ought”

Better thinking instead of Should statements: Replacing “should” with more flexible and compassionate language, such as “I prefer” or “I would like.” Understanding that imposing rigid expectations on oneself or others can lead to feelings of guilt and inadequacy. Embracing acceptance and understanding that things may not always go according to plan, and that it is okay to let go of unrealistic should statements.

Overgeneralisation Comes to a conclusion based off only 1 or 2 events

Better thinking instead of Overgeneralization: Recognising that drawing conclusions based on limited evidence can lead to inaccuracies and unfair judgments. Seeking out additional information and considering a wider range of experiences before making generalizations. Embracing complexity and diversity in individuals and situations, rather than oversimplifying based on isolated incidents. Practicing open-mindedness and curiosity to learn more about the full picture before forming opinions.

Personalisation Takes Things Personally

Better thinking instead of Personalisation: Recognising that not everything is about you and that other people’s actions or words may not always be directed towards you personally. Understanding that everyone has their own perspectives and motivations, and it is important to consider the bigger picture before internalising things as a personal attack. Practicing self-awareness and emotional resilience to manage reactions to external events without taking them personally.

Self serving bias Sees all positives as your character/negatives. No control

Better thinking instead of Self-serving bias: Recognising that attributing all positives to your character and all negatives to external factors can lead to a distorted view of reality. Taking responsibility for both successes and failures, and acknowledging the role you play in creating outcomes. Practicing humility and self-reflection to gain a more balanced perspective on your abilities and actions. Embracing personal growth and learning from both positive and negative experiences.

“Should” Statements May induce guilt or shame, “He should have called me”

Better thinking instead of “Should” Statements: Replacing “should” with more empowering language that focuses on choice and personal agency. Shifting from a mindset of obligation to one of preference or desire. Understanding that everyone has their own reasons for their actions and that imposing “should” statements can lead to unnecessary guilt or resentment. Practicing acceptance and letting go of rigid expectations in favor of understanding and compassion.