Understanding the Cognitive Triangle

Understanding the Cognitive Triangle

Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. This worksheet will help you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected.

The Cognitive Triangle is a model used to understand the interconnectedness of our thoughts, feelings (emotions), and behaviors (actions). Each point of the triangle influences the other two, creating a cycle. Understanding this cycle can help us manage our emotional responses and make more intentional choices.

1. The three points of the Cognitive Triangle are  ,  , and  .

2. Our   are the ideas and beliefs we have about ourselves, others, and the world.

3. Our   are the physical and mental sensations we experience, such as happiness, sadness, or anger.

4. Our   are the actions we take or don't take in response to our thoughts and feelings.

1. Describe a situation where a negative thought led to a negative feeling and a negative behavior. Explain how each part of the triangle was connected.

1. If you think, 'I'm going to fail this test,' what is a likely feeling you might experience?

1. Our thoughts always accurately reflect reality.

1. Imagine you are feeling angry because a friend said something hurtful. Using the Cognitive Triangle, explain how you could change your thoughts to lead to a different feeling and behavior.