In cognitive distortions, what is arbitrary inference defined as?

Arbitrary inference refers to the cognitive distortion where an individual draws a negative conclusion about a situation or outcome without sufficient evidence to support that conclusion. This thinking error involves making unfounded assumptions or interpretations that lead to misguided beliefs, often resulting in negative emotional responses. For example, a person might believe that they are disliked by their peers after receiving neutral feedback, interpreting it as a personal attack despite no evidence supporting this belief.

This thought pattern can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem because the individual bases their perceptions on faulty logic rather than objective reality. Understanding arbitrary inference is crucial for developing strategies to challenge these distortions, encouraging individuals to seek evidence for their thoughts and reframe their perspectives in a more positive and realistic manner.