Which of the following is NOT a cognitive distortion?

• A. All-or-nothing thinking
• B. Catastrophizing
• C. Overgeneralization
• D. Positive reframing

Answer: (D)

Cognitive distortions are automatic, unhelpful patterns of thinking that exaggerate problems or knit a negative view of oneself and the world. Positive reframing, on the other hand, is a constructive approach that reinterprets a situation in a more balanced or hopeful way. That’s why it’s not a distortion: it’s a deliberate technique to align thoughts with evidence and to reduce unnecessary distress.

The other examples are classic distortions. All-or-nothing thinking treats experiences as all good or all bad with no middle ground. Catastrophizing involves expecting the worst possible outcome. Overgeneralization takes one setback and broadens it into a universal rule about oneself or life. Positive reframing stands apart as a healthy cognitive tool, not a distortive pattern.