Common Irrational Beliefs of Children

1. It is awful if others don’t like me.
2. I am bad if I make a mistake.
3. Everything should go my way; I should always get what I want.
4. Things should come easily for me.
5. The world should be fair, and bad people should be punished.
6. I should not show my feelings.
7. Adults should be perfect.
8. There’s only one right answer.
9. I must win; it’s awful to lose.
10. I should not have to wait for anything.

Common Irrational Beliefs of Adolescents

1. It would be awful if other kids did not like me, and if I were a loser.
2. I should not make mistakes, especially social mistakes.
3. It’s my parent’s fault that I’m so miserable.
4. I cannot help being the way I am. I’ll always have to be this way.
5. The world should be fair and just.
6. It is awful when things do not go my way.
7. It’s better to avoid challenges than to risk being a failure.
8. I must conform to my peers.
9. I cannot stand being criticized.
10. Others should always be responsible.

Common Irrational Beliefs of Parents

1. It would be awful if my children did not like me.
2. I cannot stand it if others criticize my parenting.
3. I’m totally responsible for everything my children do, and if they behave obnoxiously, I must feel awful.
4. I must be a perfect parent, and always know the right thing to do in every situation.
5. My children should always do what I want them to.
6. If my child has a problem then I have to feel terrible, too.
7. Children should not disagree with their parents.
8. My children make me angry, depressed, and anxious.
9. If my children do not turn out the way I think they should, then I am a failure.
10. Parenting should be fun all the time.