Arbitrary inferences refer to which concept?

• A. A method to record thoughts
• B. Beck's CBT: making conclusions without the basis of supporting evidence
• C. A type of dream analysis
• D. A strategy to improve memory

Answer: (B)

Arbitrary inferences are conclusions drawn without sufficient evidence. In Beck’s CBT, this distortion shows up when someone jumps to a conclusion based on little or no data—reading someone’s mind or assuming the worst without checking the facts. For example, if a boss doesn’t reply to an email promptly, you might conclude you’re a total failure, even though there’s no evidence linking the delay to your performance. In CBT, such distortions are identified and challenged through cognitive restructuring: you examine the evidence, consider alternative explanations, and adjust your belief accordingly. This idea isn’t about recording thoughts (that would be a thought record), nor dream analysis, nor memory strategies.