kognitivista

kognitivista refers to professionals or approaches centered on cognitive processes in understanding human behavior and mental functioning. This term is commonly associated with cognitive psychology and therapy, which emphasize the role of thoughts, beliefs, and perceptions in shaping emotions and actions. The cognitive approach emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to behaviorism, shifting focus from observable behaviors to internal mental processes.

Cognitive therapists, or kognitivistas, work with clients to identify and modify dysfunctional thought patterns contributing to psychological distress. They believe that changing maladaptive thinking can lead to improvements in emotional well-being and behavior. This approach has proven effective in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and phobias.

The cognitive revolution in psychology, led by figures like Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis, established the foundation for what is now known as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), one of the most widely practiced forms of psychotherapy globally. Kognitivistas continue to advance the field through research and clinical applications that enhance our understanding of how cognitive processes influence human experience.