What we see is not necessarily real. Sometimes, our perspective is distorted due to many reasons. It could be due to visual effects, when we can hardly comprehend that our eyes are not seeing the whole truth. It can also happen because of the fact that we are emotionally attached and therefore our judgement is questionable. And then, the most interesting reason – cognitive distortion! Sounds awfully serious, I know. We’ll try to make it simpler. Let’s see what the brain can do to full us around, according to therapists. It is up to you to decide to what extent the picture you develop is actually “distorted”. Are you into conspiracy theory and seeing reality clearly?
What Does It Mean to Have a Distorted Thinking?
Our brains are like computers. They can process a great amount of data. It has been estimated that the human with an average brain capacity can store app. 2.5 million gigabytes of memory. Humans have up to 80,000 thoughts a day. They say that it is no wonder our brains sometimes have a glitch. And let’s see how therapists define cognitive distortion.
According to the widely accepted belief, this phenomenon defines as “a pattern in a belief system that is false or inaccurate and has the potential to cause psychological damage”.
I am not at all an expert, but I am interpreting this in the following way. If a person thinks in a certain way which is not based on logic, he or she has a distorted picture of a reality. Furthermore, that kind of thinking would lead to psychological problems. If I am to accept this as the truth and give great minds of psychology a benefit of a doubt, all my problems are solved.
Does Thinking Intuitively Causes Damage?
Many people do not feel being trapped if thinking outside the box. Take faith for example. If you are a believer, you simply believe. You do not constantly look for an evidence of the God’s existence. You test your faith from time to time because events in real life cannot always depict your belief system logically. But does this cause psychological damage?
On the other hand, dwelling on topics that can never be solved, or disclosed is troublesome and I assume can cause insecurities, paranoia, fear, etc. Nevertheless, there are people who are very inclined to explore the mysterious events and stories and still are able to retain their sanity.
What’s Up with Conspiracy Theories?
Take conspiracy theory s as a great example of this phenomenon. These are stories that we have found online, or that we have heard of. For these stories, we have no hard evidence and will probably never know whether they are true. However, the pieces of the puzzle they are building somehow make sense. Why is that?
Perhaps, because we never find ourselves in a situation to simultaneously examine the arguments coming from both sides of the spectra. To do so, we would need to have access to data stored in various institutions. Alternatively, to find the scientific experts willing to debunk each and every theory that emerges. This never happens. If it is not logically refuted, then it could be true.
On the other hand, calling it a “conspiracy theory” gives it a sinister sound that is again playing with our minds. The moment someone tries to discredit in advance a person or a phenomenon by giving them labels, an alarm in our brains should turn on.
Qanons and the Flat Earth Phenomenon
I remember that when I first saw the documentary on the subject of flat Earth, I was really shocked. Could the Earth really be flat? Everything said in that 2-hour video, which I believe you can still find on YT, made sense to me. However, nothing was in line with what I learned throughout my life. I am not saying that it is true. However, I support questioning the belief systems.
Another phenomenon that emerged is the Qanon movement (or society). I am not sure what the proper term is. The great thing about the Qanons is that they invite everyone to do their own research. However, conducting a credible research on topics that are highly classified is not something anyone can do. Again, we can only rely on what we see, hear and ultimately – believe. If that makes our brains cognitively distorted, so be it.
How Our Brains are Set?
Human brain usually strives for order. It looks for pieces to fit in. Doubt is only a logical means to achieve this. You doubt and develop critical thinking based on your conclusions – whatever those conclusions may be. This gives you the chance to explore and deduct. Lastly, that is how you keep your brain alive!
Another great way to exercise your brain is to keep playing. We have many active promotions at our bet safe and crypto accepted Casino Brango. Check them out!
And do not forget to let us know about the ways you keep your brain alive. Do you have a favorite conspiracy theory?
