EMDR’s Four Belief Domains
In EMDR literature, negative beliefs are called negative cognitions (NCs). They are organised into four domains that cover the most common conclusions trauma produces about the self.
Beliefs about whether the world is safe and whether you are capable of protecting yourself. “I am in danger.” “I cannot protect myself.” “I am going to die.” “Something bad will happen.”
Beliefs about fault, blame, and inherent worth. “I am responsible.” “I am bad.” “I am worthless.” “I am a failure.” “I am not good enough.” “I am disgusting.” “I deserve what happened.”
Beliefs about agency and effectiveness. “I am powerless.” “I am helpless.” “I am weak.” “I cannot trust my judgment.” “I cannot succeed.”
Beliefs about relationships and worthiness of love. “I am unlovable.” “I do not belong.” “I am different from others.” “I cannot trust anyone.” “I am alone.”
Most people have one primary domain — the belief that runs most consistently across contexts. Look at the sentence you wrote in the previous lesson. Which domain does it fall into?