Disqualifying The Positive is a mental filter or cognitive distortion characterized by a negative bias in thinking. It essentially means that a person downplays or overlooks a positive experience — instead, they attribute it to luck or coincidence. This type of thinking can lead to anxiety, perfectionism, and a diminished experience of joy.
The Disqualifying The Positive CBT Handout serves as a self-help or therapeutic resource for clients to identify instances where they may be dismissing positive experiences. It also guides them through the process of overcoming this thought pattern. Examples of tips found in the handout include noticing their assumptions and learning to accept positive feedback.
Using this handout helps kids and teens develop a shift in their perspective. For example, if a friend compliments them on their appearance, they may dismiss it as mere politeness. However, by using the tips in the handout, they can begin to acknowledge the compliment more genuinely.
Our CBT Handouts Bundle includes this and 18 other handouts sharing information on many common cognitive distortions and CBT treatment concepts.
*This item is an instant digital download. A link to download your files will be emailed to you once payment is confirmed.
Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of CBT worksheets and handouts.
References:
- Boothby, E. J., & Bohns, V. K. (2020). Why a simple act of kindness is not as simple as it seems: underestimating the positive impact of our compliments on others. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 47(5), 826–840. https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167220949003
- Vassilopoulos, S. P., & Banerjee, R. (2010). Social interaction anxiety and the discounting of positive interpersonal events. Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy, 38(5), 597–609. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1352465810000433
