Which statement best describes how cognitive therapy affects emotions?

• A. Emotions are determined solely by genetics.
• B. Emotions are only influenced by external events.
• C. Emotions are fixed and unchangeable.
• D. Changing appraisal can lead to improved emotions and behaviors.

Answer: (D)

In cognitive therapy, emotions come from how we interpret events, not from the events themselves or from genetics alone. By identifying automatic thoughts, challenging distorted interpretations, and reframing how we view a situation, we shift the emotional response and, often, the resulting behavior. Changing appraisal, therefore, can lead to calmer or more positive emotions and more adaptive actions, which is the core mechanism of CBT. While genetics and external events play a role, CBT emphasizes that altering our thoughts about a situation can change how we feel, and that emotions are not fixed.