Irrational beliefs in CBT are targeted because they are associated with:

• A. Clear and accurate interpretations of events.
• B. Dysfunctional interpretations that contribute to distress.
• C. Only temporary mood fluctuations.
• D. Unchangeable core personality traits.

Answer: (B)

In CBT, the emphasis is on how beliefs shape emotional responses. Irrational beliefs are biased, unrealistic interpretations of events that tend to amplify distress. They drive automatic negative thoughts and distortions, helping to maintain or worsen emotional suffering and maladaptive behavior. Because these distorted interpretations are linked to the distress people experience, targeting them through identification and cognitive restructuring is central to reducing symptoms and improving functioning.

The other ideas don’t fit as well: interpretations that are clear and accurate wouldn’t drive distress and are not what CBT aims to alter; distress linked to only temporary mood swings misses the belief-driven pattern underlying it; and viewing beliefs as unchangeable core traits clashes with CBT’s view that cognitive patterns can be changed with therapy.