CBT Assumptions and Change

The Map is not the Territory

This fundamental premise states that our perception of reality (map) is not reality itself (territory).

Each person operates with a different map based on their experiences, filters and beliefs.

Understanding this fosters tolerance and reduces conflict, as it is understood that the other is not "wrong", they are simply using a different map.

The goal of change is to enrich and update one's map to make it more useful and accurate.

The Positive Intention (There are no bad intentions)

From a therapeutic approach, it is assumed that all behavior has an original positive intention for the one who performs it, even if the result is harmful.

For example, someone may yell (negative behavior) with the intention of being heard or protecting himself (positive intention).

Looking for the underlying positive intention allows us to work with the person without judgment, finding healthier ways to meet that same need.

No One is Broken

This presupposition holds that people are not defective objects in need of repair, but are functioning perfectly according to the programs (beliefs and strategies) they have in place.

If someone has depression, their system is "working" to depress them according to their current patterns.

Change does not consist in "fixing" the person, but in helping them to access the resources they already have and to reprogram the strategies that do not serve them.

Summary

The premise that "the map is not the territory" states that our subjective percept