core-beliefs-info-sheet

What are Core Beliefs?

Bright Start Bright Future Counselling Center
Client Name

First NameLast Name
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
Core Beliefs

Core beliefs are a person’s most central ideas about themselves, others, and the world. These beliefs act like a lens through which every situation and life experience is seen. Because of this, people with different core beliefs might be in the same situation, but think, feel, and behave very differently. Even if a core belief is inaccurate, it still shapes how a person sees the world. Harmful core beliefs lead to negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, whereas rational core beliefs lead to balanced reactions.
Situation:

Two people with different core beliefs receive a bad grade on a test.
Person A

Core Belief: “I am a failure.”

Reaction

Thought: Of course I failed… why bother?

Feeling: Depressed

Behavior: Makes no changes.

Person B

Core Belief: “I am perfectly capable, when I give my best effort.”

Reaction

Thought: I did poorly because I didn’t prepare.

Feeling: Disappointed

Behavior: Plans to study before the next test.
Common Harmful Core Beliefs
Core beliefs are often hidden beneath surface-level beliefs. For example, the core belief “no one likes me” might underlie the surface belief “my friends only spend time with me out of pity”.
Helpless

“I am weak”“I am a loser”“I am trapped”
Unlovable

“I am unlovable”“I will end up alone”“No one likes me”
Worthless

“I am bad”“I don’t deserve to live”“I am worthless”
External Danger

“The world is dangerous”“People can’t be trusted”“Nothing ever goes right”
Consequences of Harmful Core Beliefs
Interpersonal Problems

difficulty trusting othersfeelings of inadequacy in relationshipsexcessive jealousyoverly confrontational or aggressiveputting others’ needs above one’s own needs
Mental Health Problems

depressionanxietysubstance abusedifficulty handling stresslow self-esteem
Facts About Core Beliefs
People are not born with core beliefs—they are learned.Core beliefs usually develop in childhood, or during stressful or traumatic periods in adulthood.Information that contradicts core beliefs is often ignored.Negative core beliefs are not necessarily true, even if they feel true.Core beliefs tend to be rigid and long-standing. However, they can be changed.
Should be Empty:

What are Core Beliefs?

Situation:

Common Harmful Core Beliefs

Consequences of Harmful Core Beliefs

Facts About Core Beliefs