One of the major reasons why it’s hard for us to get over…
““One of the major reasons why it’s hard for us to get over dysfunctional paradigms is our habit of selective attention. We’re more likely to register experiences that support our beliefs, and forget about—or just not see—those that run counter to what we want to believe. The basic principle of interpersonal psychotherapy, a highly respected method, is this: The reason it’s so difficult to change problem behavior is that the behavior is based on beliefs and attitudes that are continually validated by other people and by selective inattention to results that contradict those beliefs.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Selective attention reinforces existing beliefs, making it hard to change dysfunctional patterns because contrary evidence is ignored.
In simple terms: We notice only what fits our beliefs, hindering change.
Key Takeaway
Challenge selective attention; seek contradictory evidence.
Themes
cognition
beliefs
psychotherapy
Mood
introspective
curious
Type
therapeutic
insightful
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- personal growth
- team meetings
- decision making
Key Concepts
confirmation bias
cognitive dissonance
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence have you ignored?
- How can you broaden your perspective?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑seated beliefs often meets resistance.