Thinking Traps (Cognitive Distortions Workbook for Teens)

"Thinking Traps" Worksheets (Exploring Unhelpful Thinking Patterns)

Tools and Activities to Break Free from Negative Thinking Patterns

Note: This is a digital download that will be available immediately after purchase. No physical product will be shipped.

(BUNDLE & SAVE! This product is also included in the TEEN RESOURCES BUNDLE, where you can get all our teen workbooks at a discounted price!)

Do These Thoughts Sound Familiar?

• “If I don’t get an A, I’m a total failure.”
• “My friend didn’t text back. I must have done something wrong.”
• “I feel nervous, so I must not belong here.”
• “I should always make everyone happy.”

These are examples of what we refer to as thinking traps. In psychology, they’re known as cognitive distortions — errors in the way the brain processes information.

Cognitive distortions are unhelpful thinking patterns that trick us into seeing situations in an inaccurate or unbalanced way. They aren’t deliberate lies; they often happen automatically. But they can still lead to distorted conclusions, strong emotions, and unhelpful reactions.

What This Workbook Does

This workbook introduces 12 of the most common thinking traps in a way teens can understand. Each section includes:

• A relatable scenario to illustrate the trap
• Reflection questions to guide teens through the thought pattern
• A clear explanation of what’s happening
• A practical tool or activity to challenge the pattern

At the end, the Strategy Toolbox pulls together all the tools in one place for quick reference.

Thinking Traps Explored in This Workbook

• All or nothing thinking
• Magnifying and minimizing
  • Catastrophizing
• Jumping to conclusions
  • Mind reading
  • Fortune telling
• Overgeneralizing
• Labelling
• Discounting the positives
• Emotional reasoning
• Should statements
• Personalization

Product Details:

• Digital product in PDF format/ 92 pages. It is not a printed product but a digital download.
• US Letter size (8.5 x 11 inches) / Fillable PDF (with a PDF reader.)
• The files are only for personal and non-transferable use.
• These products are DIGITAL FILES only, and NO PHYSICAL ITEMS will be sent.
• This product is for non-commercial use only.
• Due to the digital nature of this product, there are no returns or refunds.