Question:

Which of the following is not a cognitive error or dysfunction?

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Thought block is a formal thought disorder, not a Beckian cognitive distortion.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Catastrophic thinking
  • Arbitrary inference
  • Overgeneralization
  • Thought block
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Define cognitive errors. In Beck's cognitive theory, cognitive errors (cognitive distortions) are faulty patterns of thinking seen in depression and anxiety. They include catastrophising, arbitrary inference, overgeneralisation, selective abstraction, magnification, minimisation, personalisation and dichotomous thinking.
Step 2: Check the cognitive-error options. Catastrophic thinking (expecting the worst), arbitrary inference (drawing a conclusion without evidence) and overgeneralisation (applying one event to all situations) are all recognised cognitive distortions.
Step 3: Examine thought block. Thought block is a disorder of the stream/form of thought, where the train of thought suddenly stops. It is a sign seen in schizophrenia, not a cognitive distortion of the depressive type.
Step 4: Distinguish the categories. Cognitive errors are about distorted content/interpretation of thinking, whereas thought block is a disturbance in the flow of thought. Thought block therefore does not belong to the list of cognitive errors.
Step 5: Hence the answer is thought block.
Answer: Thought block.
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