About
The Thinking Bugs website started in 2020 as a resource for people looking to improve their mental health and well-being through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Visitors could find descriptions and examples of classical CBT thinking errors, also known as cognitive distortions. These are common patterns of thinking that can misrepresent reality, often leading to negative emotions and behaviors.
Today, Thinking Bugs offers not only the classical CBT thinking errors but also additional cognitive distortions, or thinking bugs, as we call them.
We use garden and computer metaphors to explain how these "bugs" can affect the mind and its functioning:
Garden Metaphor: Bugs are like negative thoughts and behaviors that can take over and dominate the mind if not properly cared for. These "bugs" are similar to weeds that grow and spread in the garden of the mind, hindering the growth of positive thoughts and behaviors.
Computer Metaphor: Bugs are compared to errors or glitches in a computer system that disrupt performance. In the mind, these "bugs" are negative thought patterns or thinking errors that interfere with optimal functioning. Just as a computer requires regular maintenance to fix bugs and ensure proper functioning, the mind needs care and attention to identify and address these negative patterns.
How we use AI
Thinking Bugs began with human-written descriptions of classical CBT thinking errors. Over time, the catalog grew into a larger writing system that uses human direction, structured article rules, source checks, and AI-assisted drafting and revision.
In 2026, the Thinking Bugs website was completely rebuilt using Cursor and multiple AI models, including ChatGPT 5.6, Sonnet 5, Fable 5, and Grok 4.6. Empowered by AI, it became possible to implement the visually rich Computer and Garden metaphor themes, create unique avatars for bugs, classify and rate them, and more.
When writing, different AI models can be useful at different stages: outlining a page, testing whether a concept overlaps with an existing bug, generating everyday examples, challenging vague claims, checking tone, or improving a reframing exercise. Making the process visible helps readers and contributors understand how the catalog is shaped and improved.
Each article is shaped by editorial rules: it should describe a thinking pattern without shaming the reader, use concrete examples, stay careful with psychological claims, and connect to related thinking bugs. The public source files show those rules, article drafts, routes, references, and revision credits so contributors can understand how the catalog is maintained.
Here is the current authorship breakdown across the catalog. Written is the first draft. Revised means a later model or contributor rewrote or reviewed the page. An article can appear under more than one model or contributor.
| Model | Written | Revised | Articles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grok 4.5 | 33 | 123 | 156 |
| ChatGPT 4.4 | 119 | 0 | 119 |
| GPT-5.6 Sol | 0 | 27 | 27 |
| Claude Fable 5 | 11 | 2 | 13 |
| Claude Opus 4.8 | 0 | 3 | 3 |
We strive to provide the most accurate and helpful information possible. If you find unclear wording, missing nuance, weak examples, or possible inaccuracies, please let us know by contacting us at [email protected].
Reframing App
To help users identify and overcome negative thought patterns, we created the Reframing App, inspired by classical CBT journaling techniques. It's a tool for journaling and reframing thoughts in healthier, more constructive ways. By using the app, users can learn to recognize thinking bugs in their thoughts and take steps to rewrite and reframe them. Whether you're looking to learn more about cognitive distortions or actively improve your mental health through CBT techniques, the Thinking Bugs website and the journaling app are valuable resources.
The app is a modern, digital version of classical CBT practice, based on the mood logging technique described and popularized by David D. Burns and Aaron T. Beck.
Contact
Contact us at [email protected]
Disclaimer
The ideas and suggestions provided are not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any matters related to your health.