Behavioral Therapy - Thought-Stopping involves which of the following actions?

• A. Forcing the self to stop thinking in an unproductive way, often using a cue like a rubber band.
• B. Replacing thoughts with positive affirmations only.
• C. Gradually exposing oneself to feared stimuli without coping strategies.
• D. Recording thoughts and analyzing them mathematically.

Answer: (A)

Thought-stopping in behavioral therapy centers on interrupting unhelpful thoughts and regaining control of attention. The technique uses a concrete cue or action—such as snapping a rubber band—to signal a stop, breaking the chain of rumination. After the interruption, the person redirects to a more adaptive thought or behavior, reducing distress through immediate behavioral action rather than prolonged cognitive analysis. This approach fits how behavioral therapy emphasizes observable, in-the-moment strategies to change behavior and thought patterns.

The described choice captures this interrupt-and-stop mechanism. Replacing thoughts with positive affirmations only focuses on changing content without the explicit interruption step. Gradually exposing oneself to feared stimuli without coping strategies is exploring exposure therapy, not thought-stopping. Recording thoughts and analyzing them mathematically isn’t a standard behavioral technique.