Which option is a cognitive behavioral counseling technique included in the list?

• A. Social influence
• B. Aerobic exercise
• C. Cognitive restructuring
• D. Nutrition counseling

Answer: (C)

In cognitive-behavioral counseling, changing the way a person thinks is the primary route to changing how they feel and behave. Cognitive restructuring is the technique that directly targets thoughts by identifying distorted or unhelpful patterns, examining the evidence for and against them, and replacing them with more balanced, realistic interpretations. This shift in thinking reduces negative emotions and leads to more adaptive actions, which is exactly what CBT aims for. For example, turning a universal “I always fail” into a more accurate thought like “I can succeed with effort on some tasks and improve with practice.” The other options aren’t cognitive-behavioral techniques themselves: social influence focuses on how others affect behavior, aerobic exercise is a physical activity intervention, and nutrition counseling centers on dietary guidance.