Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Sich selbst fangen / Español: Atraparse a sí mismo / Português: Capturando a si mesmo / Français: Se rattraper / Italiano: Cogliersi /

Catching oneself refers to a technique in Adlerian therapy where patients learn to notice that they are performing behaviors which they wish to change. When they catch themselves, they may have an "Aha” response.

"Catching oneself" is a term used in psychology to describe the process of becoming aware of and correcting one's own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This process is often used in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as a way of promoting self-awareness and changing maladaptive patterns of thinking and behavior.

Examples of "catching oneself" in action include:

1. Negative self-talk: Someone who tends to engage in negative self-talk may catch themselves when they start to think or say something overly critical or self-defeating. They might then challenge these negative thoughts and replace them with more positive and realistic ones.

2. Impulsive behavior: Someone who tends to act impulsively may catch themselves in the act and pause before proceeding. They might then consider the consequences of their actions and make a more deliberate choice.

3. Emotional regulation: Someone who struggles with emotional regulation may catch themselves when they start to feel overwhelmed by strong emotions. They might then use relaxation techniques or other coping strategies to manage their feelings in a healthier way.

The process of catching oneself requires self-awareness and mindfulness, which can be developed through various techniques such as meditation, journaling, or therapy. By becoming more aware of their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, individuals can begin to identify patterns that may be contributing to their difficulties and work to change them.

Catching oneself can be an effective tool for improving mental health and well-being, as it helps individuals to take control of their own thoughts and behaviors, rather than being controlled by them. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve relationships, and enhance overall quality of life.