Cognitive restructuring is a core component of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for social anxiety, designed to help individuals identify, challenge, and reframe negative thought patterns that fuel their anxiety in social situations. People with social anxiety often experience distorted beliefs about themselves and how others perceive them, such as the fear of being judged, criticized, or rejected.
Through cognitive restructuring, they learn to recognize these negative thoughts, evaluate their accuracy, and replace them with more balanced and realistic perspectives. This process empowers individuals to reduce anxiety and build confidence, ultimately improving their ability to engage in social interactions with less fear and self-doubt.