Cognitive reappraisal is a psychological technique that involves changing the way one thinks about a situation or event in order to better manage one's emotions. The spelling of the word is in line with the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription, which is /ˈkɒɡ.nɪ.tɪv riː.ˈæ.prə.zəl/. This means that the word is pronounced with stress on the first syllable, with a "g" sound in "cognitive", and "ē" sound in "reappraisal". This spelling gives the word a clear and distinct pronunciation, making it easier for others to understand and communicate effectively in academic and professional settings.
Cognitive reappraisal refers to a psychological process where an individual purposefully reinterprets or reframes their own thoughts, beliefs, or perceptions in order to change their emotional response to a given situation or stimuli. It is a cognitive strategy used primarily in the field of psychology, particularly in the context of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
When a person engages in cognitive reappraisal, they actively and consciously evaluate the meaning they attribute to a particular event or experience, and then intentionally adjust their interpretation in a more positive or adaptive manner. By doing so, cognitive reappraisal aims to modify emotional reactions such as fear, anxiety, anger, or sadness, and ultimately promote more positive emotions like contentment, tranquility, or joy.
This cognitive process involves identifying and challenging maladaptive or unhelpful thoughts and replacing them with more rational and positive ones. It often requires individuals to introspect, reflect, and actively analyze the cognitive content underlying their emotional responses. By reappraising the way they perceive and think about a situation, individuals can manage and regulate their emotions more effectively.
Cognitive reappraisal is considered an important emotion regulation strategy as it allows individuals to exert a degree of control over their emotional experiences. It is often employed in various contexts, including coping with stress, managing anxiety, reducing symptoms of depression, and improving overall well-being.
Overall, cognitive reappraisal is a cognitive process that involves consciously reframing and reinterpreting one's thoughts to alter emotional responses, aiming to achieve more positive and adaptive emotions.
The word "cognitive" comes from the Latin word "cognitivus", which means "related to knowing". It is derived from the word "cognitus", the past participle of "cognoscere", which means "to get to know" or "to come to know".
The term "reappraisal" is composed of two parts: "re-" which is a prefix meaning "again" or "back" and "appraisal" which comes from the Old French word "apriser", meaning "to appraise" or "to set a price on".
Therefore, "cognitive reappraisal" refers to the process of reevaluating or reassessing one's thoughts, beliefs, or interpretations about a particular situation or event using cognitive processes or understanding. It is often used in the context of cognitive-behavioral therapy and emotion regulation techniques.