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Understanding the Mind

Metacognition

Metacognition

The ability to recognize and observe one's own thinking processes. It is essentially 'thinking about thinking.'

Details

Metacognition refers to 'thinking about thinking' — the ability to monitor and regulate one's own cognitive processes.

Two Components of Metacognition

  • Metacognitive knowledge: Awareness of how you think (e.g., 'I tend to catastrophize when I'm under stress')
  • Metacognitive regulation: Monitoring and adjusting your own thought processes as they occur

    • Importance in Psychotherapy

    Metacognitive Therapy (MCT), developed by Adrian Wells, proposes that the core problem in anxiety and depression is not the content of thoughts, but rather beliefs *about* thinking — such as 'worrying helps me prepare' or 'I must control bad thoughts.'

    Higher metacognitive ability is closely linked to mindfulness, and forms the foundation of cognitive flexibility and resilience.

    — *Mindy, Counselor*

    💡 Real-Life Example

    Noticing in the moment, 'I'm catastrophizing right now' — and recognizing that pattern as it happens, rather than being swept away by it.

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    This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis.

    Metacognition (Metacognition) | 마음스캔 심리학 용어사전