Metakognitive therapie

Translated title of the contribution: Metacognitive therapy

O. Korn*, J. Korn, U. Schweiger

*Corresponding author for this work
1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Summary Metacognitive Therapy (MCT) developed by A. Wells is one of the new developments of Behaviour Therapy. It assumes that it is not the content of cognition but persistent and unflexible patterns of thinking and focusing attention and therewith associated dysfunctional coping behaviours which play a crucial role for the development and maintenance of psychological disorders. These patterns are called Cognitive Attentional Syndrome (CAS). The CAS consists of excessive rumination and worry, thought control strategies and focusing attention on potential danger. The reason for the use of these strategies is the existence of positive metacognitions which highlight its benefit for the patient. Over time however negative metacognitive beliefs develop about the uncontrollability and danger of these processes. They account for the continued use of these strategies and of further coping behaviours that backfire, e.g. avoidance or substance abuse. The aim of MCT is to improve the metacognitive awareness of the patient and to regain flexible control over processes of thinking and focusing attention. The CAS is reduced, the underlying metacognitive beliefs are changed and alternative plans of cognitive processing are generated. The existing data of the treatment of different psychological disorders suggest that within a relatively low number of sessions MCT is possibly as effective as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.

Translated title of the contributionMetacognitive therapy
Original languageGerman
JournalNervenheilkunde
Volume33
Issue number4
Pages (from-to)259-264
Number of pages6
ISSN0722-1541
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014

Research Areas and Centers

  • Academic Focus: Center for Brain, Behavior and Metabolism (CBBM)

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