In this session of our Change Your Thinking series, we cover the distortion in thinking of Labeling that is common among Dementia caregivers.
Labeling is a cognitive distortion when we generalize by taking one characteristic (or behavior) of a person and apply it to the entirety, or the whole, person. For example, I lost my patience with my loved one, so I must be a bad caregiver. Labeling occurs among oneself and others around you. The dangers of Labeling oneself include only seeing yourself as the label, starting to believe the label as true, stunting creativity, depression, and more included in the video session. Labeling others can create negative, broad assumptions, fuel painful emotions, and more included in the video session.
We have the power to change our thoughts over time, which can combat the negative labels we put into our life. By recognizing that the behavior/reaction/circumstance/incident or trait is the “problem” and not the person, we can challenge our labels with truth. The video session features several real-life examples that walk you through the process of challenging labels present in your life. Remember, the goal of changing your thoughts surrounding labeling is to make progress, not perfection. Change in labeling behaviors requires daily discipline, making mistakes, talking with trusted people, and more as outlined in the video session.
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
- Emotional Reasoning & Jumping to Conclusions
- Magnifying or Minimizing
- Mental Filters
- Overgeneralization
- Should Statements and Personalizing the Blame
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.
Visit our Education Calendar for a full list of upcoming programs and learning opportunities, or check out James L. West Learn to browse our video library.
