Advances in cognitive theory and therapy: the generic cognitive model

• Published in: Annual review of clinical psychology Vol. 10; p. 1
• Main Authors: Beck, Aaron T, Haigh, Emily A P
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.01.2014
• Subjects: Adaptation, Psychological - physiology; Anxiety Disorders - psychology; Anxiety Disorders - therapy; Bipolar Disorder - psychology; Bipolar Disorder - therapy; Cognition - physiology; Cognitive Therapy; Depressive Disorder - psychology; Depressive Disorder - therapy; Humans; Mental Disorders - psychology; Mental Disorders - therapy; Models, Psychological; Psychological Theory
• ISSN: 1548-5951
• DOI: 10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-032813-153734

For over 50 years, Beck's cognitive model has provided an evidence-based way to conceptualize and treat psychological disorders. The generic cognitive model represents a set of common principles that can be applied across the spectrum of psychological disorders. The updated theoretical model provides a framework for addressing significant questions regarding the phenomenology of disorders not explained in previous iterations of the original model. New additions to the theory include continuity of adaptive and maladaptive function, dual information processing, energizing of schemas, and attentional focus. The model includes a theory of modes, an organization of schemas relevant to expectancies, self-evaluations, rules, and memories. A description of the new theoretical model is followed by a presentation of the corresponding applied model, which provides a template for conceptualizing a specific disorder and formulating a case. The focus on beliefs differentiates disorders and provides a target for treatment. A variety of interventions are described.