What are the core components of cognitive-behavioral therapy?

• A. Dream analysis, cognitive restructuring, exposure to feared stimuli, and behavioral activation
• B. Cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, exposure to feared stimuli, and skills training to alter thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
• C. Skills training only with no exposure or cognitive work
• D. Behavioral activation and dream analysis only

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is what components make up cognitive-behavioral therapy. In CBT, the focus is on how thoughts influence feelings and behaviors, and the approach uses specific techniques to change those patterns. Cognitive restructuring targets unhelpful beliefs and replaces them with more accurate, adaptive thoughts. Behavioral activation helps people engage in rewarding activities to lift mood and reduce withdrawal. Exposure to feared stimuli gradually reduces avoidance and anxiety, improving tolerance to triggers. Skills training provides practical tools—like coping strategies and problem-solving—that help manage thoughts, feelings, and actions in real life. Dream analysis isn’t considered a standard part of CBT’s toolkit; it’s associated with other therapeutic approaches. So the best answer combines cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, exposure, and skills training to alter thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The other options either omit essential components or include elements not central to CBT.