ABSTRACT

This chapter begins with the basic premises and characteristics of cognitive behavioral approaches. It discusses the four major cognitive behavioral approaches with couples: Cognitive behavioral couple therapy (CBCT), traditional behavioral couple therapy (TBCT), integrated behavioral couple therapy, and dialectic couple behavior therapy. CBCT is a systemic model of relationships in that it tracks interaction cycles in which partners continuously influence one another. TBCT therapists identify both behavioral deficits and behavioral excesses that influence adjustment. In contrast, the cognitive behavioral approach focuses more on the here-and-now elements of the couple. Cognitive behavioral approaches to couple dysfunction use both behavioral interventions and cognitive interventions to change behaviors and cognitions. In a cognitive behavioral approach to couple therapy, the focus of treatment is on those faulty cognitions and behaviors impeding the couple's relationship and focuses primarily on the present and assumes that insight and reality testing are necessary for effective change.