ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the most common thinking errors that generally accompany inappropriate sexual activity. Psychologists normally refer to these errors as 'cognitive distortions'. Shame is the excruciating feeling of helpless condemnation. There are a number of common ways in which doctors try to handle the discomfort of shame. They all involve twisting their thinking so that they do not have to experience the unbearable sensation of shame. The most common ways in which doctors do this are through denial, rationalisation, justification, minimisation, excuses and blame. Denial involves saying that the sexual acting out just did not happen. Rationalisation involves admitting that the sexual acting out happened, but convincing oneself that he/she will never do it again. The chapter considers the list of the most common cognitive distortions and works out which ones are especially relevant in one's thinking and speaking processes.
