Cognitive defusion is a key aspect of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) that allows individuals to observe their thoughts without getting tangled in them. Many people struggle with distress because they overidentify with their thoughts, mistaking them for facts rather than recognizing them as mere mental events. Unlike traditional cognitive behavioral therapy, ACT emphasizes changing our relationship with our thoughts rather than attempting to change the thoughts themselves. By practicing cognitive defusion, individuals can experience a greater sense of mindfulness, enabling them to engage meaningfully with life despite the presence of difficult thoughts.
One reason people struggle with their thoughts is overidentification with them. Cognitive defusion allows us to observe these thoughts without attachment, reducing distress.
Defusion helps lessen the impact of distressing thoughts on our functioning. We can relate mindfully to our thoughts without being tangled in them, unlike traditional CBT.
When people are fused with thoughts, they feel very real and engaging them can lead to further entanglement. We should instead rest at the surface of our thoughts.
Mindful awareness of our difficult thoughts is essential. We can engage meaningfully with life while maintaining distance from our thoughts, avoiding unnecessary struggle.
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