In this session of our Change Your Thinking series, we cover two distortions in thinking that are common among Dementia caregivers. Emotional Reasoning is a cognitive process by which an individual concludes that their emotional reaction proves something is true, despite contrary evidence. Comparably, but less emotionally driven, Jumping to Conclusions is a negative thinking pattern where one judges something without having all the facts. These distortions in thinking can lead to dangerous behaviors such as procrastination, excessive generalization of events, judging behaviors of others without empathy, laziness, and more included in the video session.
Although these negative habits may seem overwhelming at times, this video session covers several tactics to combat Emotional Reasoning and Jumping to Conclusions. These distortions in thinking can be overcome by slowing down and forcing yourself to think through various questions such as ones relevant to discovering the facts and more positive explanations than the ones you are providing in your mind. As discussed in the video session, you have the power to change your negative thoughts and habits over time! Remember, change is a process.
This session is part of the Change Your Thinking series of programs on the caregiver mindset. Recorded sessions are 30 minutes or less in length.
- All or Nothing
- Discounting the Positive – video not available
- Labeling
- Magnifying or Minimizing
- Mental Filters
- Overgeneralization
- Should Statements and Personalizing the Blame
For more resources on Emotional Reasoning and Jumping to Conclusions, please see the content mentioned in our session.
Emotional Reasoning: It’s a Trap! with Kevin Ashworth
Jumping to Conclusions – Lesson 5 – Free Anxiety Relief Course with Luke Horton
The James L. West Center for Dementia Care is a faith-inspired, not-for-profit organization serving persons impacted by dementia. As a trusted expert, we provide personalized, innovative care and support for families and specialized education for caregivers, healthcare professionals, and the community at-large.
Connect with us at 817-877-1199; caregiver@jameslwest.org; or stop by our building at 1111 Summit Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76102.
