Cognitive–behavioral interventions integrate thoughts and behaviors into problem-assessment approaches, conceptualization, and intervention. The cognitive–behavioral approach views problems as resulting from both environmental and cognitive antecedents, and combines what has typically been called the behavioral or learning approach with the cognitive or semantic approach. Cognitions are seen as necessary concerns for treatment of mental or behavioral problems in children and adolescents. Cognitions are viewed as mediators of behavior and learning. Learning-based methods that have been used to alter overt behaviors are also used to alter cognitions. The cognitive–behavioral therapist works to alter the individual's internal dialogue and images and external context to produce behavior change.

In 1971, Meichenbaum and Goodman published the first study of the use of the cognitive–behavioral approach with children. They reported on the ...