Researchers believe that the key characteristic that explains the therapeutic benefits of cognitive therapy is

A) mentally disputing irrational thinking.
B) replacing dysfunctional thinking with more functional thoughts.
C) keeping a record of negative automatic thoughts.
D) decentering oneself from one's negative thoughts.

Decentering oneself from one's negative thoughts, or stepping back and recognizing that thoughts and emotions are separate from one's true self, allows individuals to view their thoughts more objectively and challenge them in cognitive therapy. This leads to a change in thinking patterns and ultimately a reduction in negative emotions and behaviors. While the other options (mentally disputing irrational thinking, replacing dysfunctional thinking with more functional thoughts, and keeping a record of negative automatic thoughts) may be techniques used in cognitive therapy, they do not fully explain the therapeutic benefits of the approach.