Jumping To Conclusions

Jumping to conclusions is classified as a thinking error—an automatic, often irrational pattern that reinforces negative beliefs. It’s especially common in people with anxiety, as the mind quickly fills in gaps with worst-case scenarios.

It’s common to experience a sudden thought that makes no logical sense yet triggers intense anxiety or fear. These are often irrational thoughts – ideas or mental images that aren’t based on reason, evidence, or logic.

All-or-nothing thinking—also known as black-and-white or dichotomous thinking—is a common cognitive distortion where experiences are viewed in extremes: success or failure, good or bad, perfect or worthless. There’s no room for in-between.