Behavioural Experiment
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Sometimes our thoughts or predictions feel absolutely true, even when we’ve never tested them. A behavioural experiment helps you challenge these beliefs in real life and discover what’s actually true for you. It’s about learning, not proving yourself right or wrong.
References
Bennett-Levy, J., Butler, G., Fennell, M., Hackmann, A., Mueller, M., & Westbrook, D. (2004). Oxford guide to behavioural experiments in cognitive therapy. Oxford University Press. The foundational text on designing, conducting, and debriefing behavioural experiments within CBT. Bennett-Levy, J., & Padesky, C. A. (2014). Use of behavioural experiments to test beliefs. In J. Bennett-Levy et al. (Eds.), Oxford guide to behavioural experiments in cognitive therapy (2nd ed., pp. 1–25). Oxford University Press. Provides the theoretical and practical framework for belief testing through behavioural change. McManus, F., Van Doorn, K., & Yiend, J. (2012). Examining the effects of thought records and behavioural experiments in cognitive therapy for depression. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 50(3), 204–212. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brat.2011.12.006 Empirical evidence showing behavioural experiments lead to stronger belief change than thought records alone.