Which of the following is a common cognitive distortion associated with anxiety disorders?

Catastrophizing is a common cognitive distortion often observed in individuals with anxiety disorders. This thinking pattern involves anticipating the worst possible outcome in any given situation, leading to excessive feelings of fear and anxiety. For example, someone might think that a minor mistake at work could result in being fired, even when that outcome is highly unlikely. This distortion exacerbates anxiety by focusing on potential negative consequences rather than a more balanced or realistic view of a situation.

While overgeneralization, personalization, and all-or-nothing thinking are indeed cognitive distortions present in anxiety disorders, the choice of catastrophizing closely aligns with the hallmark features of anxiety, as it directly contributes to the pervasive feelings of worry and dread characteristic of these conditions. This distortion can severely impact an individual's ability to cope with stress and reduces their overall mental well-being, making it particularly significant in the context of anxiety disorders.