Cognitive restructuring as a way to reduce anxiety in the face of uncertainty

cognitive restructuring is considered as a mechanism of psychological adaptation to uncertainty; the proposed framework is applicable in preventive, educational and corporate programs. Cognitive restructuring aims to help a person recognize automatic negative thoughts, verify their validity, and formulate more realistic, flexible interpretations of events. As a result of this process, not only the perception of the situation changes, but also the emotional state of the individual. The purpose of this article is to provide a theoretical and methodological justification for the use of cognitive restructuring to reduce anxiety and to develop a structured model for its independent use. Research methods such as a theoretical and analytical review of basic and modern research (Scopus, PubMed, APA PsycNet, eLibrary; 2018-2025) and a comparison of cognitive models of anxiety and intolerance to uncertainty were used. It has been shown that the effect of cognitive restructuring is mediated by changes in cognitive schemas and an increase in cognitive flexibility.; A five-step self-help model is proposed, including behavioral reinforcement of new interpretations. Cognitive restructuring can be considered as a mechanism of psychological adaptation to uncertainty; the proposed framework is applicable in preventive, educational and corporate programs.

cognitive restructuring, cognitive behavioral therapy, anxiety, uncertainty, cognitive flexibility, intolerance to uncertainty, self-help, stress tolerance