Cognitive Distortion Scales (CDS)

Purpose: Assess negative thinking patterns that interfere with optimal functioning

Candidates: 18 – 91 years

Administration: 10-15 minutes; 5 minutes to score

The Cognitive Distortion Scale (CDS) is a 40-item self-assessment of cognitive distortions, with scales reflecting five types of cognitive distortion:

1. Self-Criticism (SC)—Low self-esteem and self-devaluation as expressed in the tendency to criticize or devalue oneself.
2. Self-Blame (SB)—Extent to which the respondent blames himself or herself for negative, unwanted events in his or her life, including events outside the respondent's control.
3. Helplessness (HLP)—Perception of being unable to control important aspects of one's life.
4. Hopelessness (HOP)—Extent to which the respondent believes that the future is bleak and that he or she is destined to fail
5. Preoccupation with Danger (PWD)—Tendency to view the world, especially the interpersonal domain, as a dangerous place.

Studies suggest that individuals with a history of child abuse or later personal trauma are especially likely to score in the clinical range on the CDS scales. Data presented in the CDS Professional Manual support use of this instrument in clinical and nonclinical contexts with adults who have no significant trauma history and those who have been traumatised.