Learn more about a type of cognitive distortion called magnification and minimization, and how it relates specifically to panic disorder. People prone to panic attacks often fall experience this cognitive distortion, which magnifies fears and maladaptive behaviors, while minimizing their ability to cope. Below are two examples of magnification and minimization, followed by ways to combat this faulty thinking pattern. Kim is magnifying her flaws and minimizing her accomplishment. If Kim were thinking more realistically, she would recognize that most people enjoyed her speech and didn’t even notice the small imperfections. Her mistakes actually may have made her toast sound even more genuine and sincere. Kim likely missed out on the fun of this wonderful event by focusing too much on the few errors that occurred in her speech. Alex’s fears and anxiety became worse as he continued to magnify the accident. Certainly, it can be anxiety-provoking to get into even the smallest of accidents. However, Alex may have felt better if he considered the positives of the situation instead of minimizing them. No one was hurt and the other driver did not even think the accident was substantial enough to pursue damages. Unless he stops expanding his fearful thoughts about the situation, Alex’s panic symptoms and worries will only continue to escalate.
