Cognitive restructuring is an approach to therapy based on learning theories that emphasize the role of cognitions, or thoughts. These theories share much in common with more behaviorally based approaches that focus on the role of environmental stimuli and consequences in the learning process. For example, both behavioral and cognitive theories highlight the role of learning in the development of psychological symptoms and disorders. They also both emphasize an empirical approach, relying on research findings to make conclusions about how psychological problems develop and how best to treat them. However, cognitive theories suggest that learning is mediated by thoughts: People learn to behave in certain ways and to experience particular feelings based on what they think is happening in ...