Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was developed by Aaron Beck, who believed that external events do not cause anxiety. Which of the following statements is correct?

Choice A reason: CBT is one of the most effective treatments for phobias. It uses exposure techniques and cognitive restructuring to reduce fear responses, making this statement incorrect. Choice B reason: CBT is a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders. It helps clients identify and challenge anxious thoughts and behaviors, making this statement false. Choice C reason: CBT aims to identify and modify irrational beliefs and cognitive distortions that contribute to emotional distress and maladaptive behavior. This is the core principle of CBT and aligns with Beck’s theory. Choice D reason: Transference is a psychoanalytic concept. CBT does not focus on transference or assimilation of unconscious material but rather on conscious thought patterns and behaviors.