Cognitive Approaches and Gender

A cognitive approach to gender considers the impact that cognition has on behavior and emotion and recognizes that therapeutic approaches may vary according to different gender experiences. The cognitive approach is based on the principle that one’s thought processes directly and indirectly influence one’s behavior as well as one’s mood. In addition, individuals’ behaviors and experiences, in turn, influence their thoughts and emotions. An awareness of the “cognitive triangle” (thoughts-behavior-emotion) is an essential part of the practice of professionals who work within a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) modality. This entry concentrates specifically on the cognitive aspect of CBT and how these approaches can best be considered in terms of and with sensitivity to gender. A discussion of gender follows, with a brief overview of gender ...