Disputation in cognitive therapy is a technique that involves challenging irrational beliefs, such as asking:

• A. A technique to reinforce beliefs.
• B. A method to ignore thoughts.
• C. Is there another way to look at this?
• D. A method to punish cognitive errors.

Answer: (C)

Disputation in cognitive therapy centers on challenging irrational beliefs by questioning and reframing them. The key is to invite a more flexible interpretation of a situation rather than reinforcing the negative thought, ignoring it, or punishing it as a mistake. Asking, “Is there another way to look at this?” promotes cognitive flexibility: it encourages examining evidence for and against the belief, considering alternative explanations, and finding a more balanced view. This Socratic style helps clients move away from all-or-nothing or catastrophizing thinking toward more adaptive appraisals, which is why it best exemplifies disputation.