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Journal of Sexual Aggression
An international, interdisciplinary forum for research, theory and practice
Volume 15, 2009 - Issue 3
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Debate: Cognitive Distortions

The extended mind theory of cognitive distortions in sex offenders

Pages 247-259 | Published online: 06 Nov 2009
 

Abstract

An innovative theory of the nature of cognition, the extended mind theory (EMT), has emerged recently in the cognitive science literature. According to the EMT, the boundaries of the mind extend beyond the boundaries of skull and skin, into the world beyond. My aim in this paper is to consider the practical implications of the EMT for therapists working with sex offenders’ cognitive distortions. First, I provide an overview of the key assumptions of EMT. Secondly, I draw out the major implications of this novel theory of cognition for the assessment and treatment of cognitive distortions in sex offenders. Thirdly, to make the analysis more concrete, I discuss briefly how the treatment module of cognitive restructuring could proceed according to the EMT.

Abstract

Une nouvelle théorie cognitive, la théorie “extended mind” (TEM), a récemment émergée dans les sciences cognitives. Cette théorie soutient que les pensées ne sont pas strictement internes à l'individu mais incluent également les résultats des interactions qui prennent place autour de l'individu. Dans cet article, les postulats de cette théorie sont expliqués. Ensuite, les implications de cette théorie pour améliorer l’évaluation et traitement des distorsions cognitives chez les délinquants sexuels sont discutées. Finalement, pour rendre l'analyse plus concrète, un exemple de traitement basé sur la TEM est présenté.

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